Louisiana Renters: 30-Day and 7-Day Eviction Notice Rules Explained

If you're renting in Louisiana and facing an eviction notice, it's important to know the difference between a 30-day and a 7-day notice. Louisiana law sets out specific requirements for landlords and protects renters from unfair or unclear eviction actions. This article breaks down what these notices mean, how they're served, and what steps you can take.

Understanding Louisiana Eviction Notices

Louisiana law requires landlords to give written notice before starting an eviction case. The type of notice and the length of time depend on your rental agreement and the reason for eviction. The two most common notices you might receive are:

• 30-Day Notice: Used when you have a month-to-month (no fixed end date) lease and the landlord wants to end it without cause.
• 7-Day Notice: Used when you have a week-to-week lease or if you've broken your lease agreement, such as by failing to pay rent or violating a rule.

When is a 30-Day Notice Used?

If you're renting without a set end date (month-to-month), your landlord must provide a 30-day written notice to end the tenancy for any reason that's not discriminatory or retaliatory. This notice gives you time to make new arrangements or discuss your options with your landlord. Read Louisiana Civil Code Article 2728 for the full law.

When is a 7-Day Notice Given?

If you have a week-to-week lease, or if you're behind on rent or have breached the lease, the landlord may serve a 7-day notice instead. This is much shorter and used when more urgent action is needed. It's also required before starting the formal eviction process in most cases. See the Louisiana Civil Code Article 4701 for details.

Official Forms You Might Receive

• Notice to Vacate (7-Day or 30-Day)
  Form name: No standard statewide form, but must be in writing
  When used: Served by your landlord when they want you to move out. For example, if you have not paid rent this month, you might get a 7-day notice to vacate; if you're on a month-to-month lease, you might get a 30-day notice.
  Visit the Louisiana Supreme Court site for more eviction information and templates
• Rule for Possession (Eviction Lawsuit)
  Form name: Rule for Possession, no official form number
  When used: If you do not move out after the notice period, the landlord files this with the local court to request an official eviction. You'll receive court paperwork and have a chance to appear.
  Find your local district court via the Louisiana Supreme Court

How Are Eviction Notices Served?

According to Louisiana law, eviction notices must be delivered in a way that allows proof you received them:

• Hand-delivered to you or another adult at your home
• Posted clearly on your door if hand delivery is not possible
• You may also receive a copy by mail, but posting or personal delivery is required

If you aren't sure your notice was legally served, check with your local court for guidance.

Action Steps if You Receive a Notice

• Read your notice carefully. See how many days you have to respond or move out.
• Check your lease terms to confirm the notice matches your agreement.
• If you disagree with the notice or need more time, contact your landlord promptly and in writing.
• If you believe the notice is illegal, discriminatory, or served incorrectly, prepare to attend the court hearing and bring all documents with you.
• If you remain after the notice expires, the landlord must file a court eviction. You will receive a summons for a hearing.

The Eviction Tribunal in Louisiana

Evictions in Louisiana are handled by local Parish (County) Courts. There is no statewide housing tribunal, but the Louisiana Supreme Court oversees general procedures. Find resources at the Louisiana Supreme Court website.

Relevant Louisiana Tenancy Legislation

• Louisiana Civil Code Article 2728 - Notice of Termination of Lease
• Louisiana Civil Code Article 2729 - Lease Term for Week-to-Week, Month-to-Month
• Louisiana Civil Code Article 4701 - Notice to Vacate

For official updates, visit the Louisiana State Legislature portal.

FAQ: Eviction Notices in Louisiana

1. Do landlords always have to give a written eviction notice in Louisiana?
   Yes. Landlords must provide written notice before starting eviction. Verbal requests are not legal under the law.
2. Can a landlord evict you without cause in Louisiana?
   If you have a month-to-month lease, a landlord can end your tenancy with a 30-day written notice. However, the eviction can't be discriminatory or retaliatory.
3. What if I don't move out after my notice expires?
   Your landlord must file for eviction in local court (Rule for Possession). You'll get a court date and a chance to respond.
4. How should I respond if I receive a 7-day notice?
   Review your lease and speak to your landlord quickly—especially if you can resolve the issue (such as paying past-due rent). You may also prepare for court if you disagree.
5. Where can I find court-approved eviction forms for Louisiana?
   Form templates and information are available via the Louisiana Supreme Court or your local Parish court website.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• 30-day and 7-day notices have specific uses under Louisiana law.
• Written notice is always required before eviction steps begin.
• You have the right to attend court and defend your side.
• If a notice seems incorrect or unfair, seek legal help before your deadline.

Make sure to read any notice thoroughly and take action quickly if you're unsure how to proceed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Supreme Court – Locate Your Local District or Parish Court
• LawHelp.org Louisiana – Free Legal Aid Finder
• Louisiana Attorney General – Consumer Tenant Rights
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Louisiana Rental Help

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1. Louisiana Civil Code Article 2728 - Notice of Termination of Lease
2. Louisiana Civil Code Article 2729 - Lease Term for Week-to-Week, Month-to-Month
3. Louisiana Civil Code Article 4701 - Notice to Vacate
4. Louisiana Supreme Court – Courts and Eviction Resources
5. Louisiana State Legislature – Laws and Statutes

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