Louisiana Tenant Rights During Building Repairs

If you're renting in Louisiana and your building needs repairs, it's natural to have questions about your rights and responsibilities. State law provides important protections for tenants during maintenance and repair periods. This guide explains what you can expect, what landlords must do, and practical steps to take if repairs disrupt your home.

Understanding Your Rights During Building Repairs

Louisiana law requires landlords to maintain rental properties in a condition suitable for habitation. This means your home should be safe, sanitary, and structurally sound. If repairs are needed, certain tenant protections apply.

What Landlords Are Required To Do

• Maintain Safe Living Conditions: Under the Louisiana Civil Code, Article 2691, landlords must make all necessary repairs unless you, the tenant, are at fault.¹
• Timely Repairs: Landlords must fix major repair issues that affect health or safety (like plumbing, heating, or roof leaks) within a reasonable time after being notified.
• Notice Requirements: Unless it’s an emergency, landlords should give you advance notice before entering your home to make repairs.

For work that doesn’t require immediate attention, a 24-hour notice is generally considered reasonable, though Louisiana law doesn’t set a strict statewide timeframe.

Tenant Protections and Options

• Temporary Loss of Use: If repairs make part or all of your rental uninhabitable, you may be entitled to a reduction in rent proportionate to the loss of use, per Louisiana Civil Code, Article 2694.²
• Right to End Lease: If your home is unfit to live in and the landlord fails to make necessary repairs, you may have the right to terminate your lease early without penalty.
• No Eviction for Requesting Repairs: It's illegal for your landlord to retaliate (such as trying to evict you) because you requested reasonable repairs.

Always document repair requests in writing and keep copies for your records.

How to Request Repairs or File a Complaint

Start by notifying your landlord or property manager in writing about the needed repairs. Include dates, details of the problem, and any photos if possible. If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, Louisiana law gives you additional protections.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Repair Request Letter (Sample Form): While Louisiana does not provide a standard statewide form, you can refer to the Louisiana State Bar Association Sample Repair Notice. Use this template to formally request repairs. Example: Send this letter if your heat has stopped working and the landlord hasn't fixed it after you called.
• Demand for Rent Reduction or Lease Cancellation: There is no mandated state form. You should notify your landlord in writing if you seek to reduce rent or end your lease due to serious repairs. Clearly state your reasons, cite Article 2694, and keep a copy.
• Court Petition (if needed): If your landlord fails to act, you may file a petition with your Parish (local) court. Download basic forms and instructions from the Louisiana Supreme Court forms page.

For step-by-step help, see the How-To Steps below.

The Tribunal Handling Tenancy Issues

Residential lease disputes in Louisiana are typically handled at your local Parish (District) Court. Find your local court and resources through the Louisiana Supreme Court website.³

Common Issues and Solutions

Repairs can sometimes interrupt daily life. It's important to know what to expect and what you can do if problems aren't resolved quickly.

• If repairs are delayed: Politely remind your landlord in writing, referencing previous communication dates.
• If repairs render your home unsafe: Seek alternative accommodation and notify your landlord that the home is uninhabitable, referencing Article 2694.
• If you feel your rights are violated: Contact your local legal aid office or file a complaint with the court (see Resources section).

FAQ: Louisiana Tenant Protections During Building Repairs

1. Can my landlord raise my rent due to repairs?
   No, a landlord cannot increase your rent in the middle of a lease for making repairs. Any future rent increases must follow your lease terms and local laws.
2. What if repairs make my apartment unlivable?
   If your rental unit becomes uninhabitable and repairs aren't made promptly, you may have the right to reduce your rent or even terminate your lease according to Louisiana Civil Code Article 2694.
3. Am I responsible for any repair costs?
   You are only responsible if the problem was caused by your actions or neglect. Otherwise, your landlord must pay for repairs necessary to maintain a safe and healthy environment.
4. Do I have to move out during major repairs?
   Not unless staying would be unsafe. If repairs force you to move out temporarily, speak with your landlord in advance about alternatives and potential rent reductions.
5. Who can help if my landlord won't make repairs?
   You can seek help from legal aid services, your local court, or resources listed below in the Help and Support section.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Louisiana tenants are protected by state law during building repairs, including rights to a safe home and possible rent reductions if repairs are disruptive.
• Always request repairs in writing, keep documentation, and refer to Article 2694 for uninhabitable conditions.
• Support and legal help are available through official state and local resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Supreme Court – Find your local Parish (District) Court and court forms
• Louisiana State Bar Association – Find Legal Aid Services
• Louisiana Housing Corporation – For tenant support and housing resources
• Review the Louisiana Civil Code, Articles 2668–2729 for full tenant rights details

---

1. Louisiana Civil Code, Article 2691: Landlord responsibility for repairs
2. Louisiana Civil Code, Article 2694: Consequences of uninhabitable rental property
3. Louisiana Supreme Court: Find your Parish Court

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations