Louisiana Move-In Checklist: Key Inspections for Renters

Preparing to move into a Louisiana rental? Taking a careful approach before signing your lease can save you time, money, and stress later. Louisiana law offers renters important protections, but it’s up to you to document the unit’s condition and understand disclosures before committing. This guide covers what to check, your rights, relevant official forms, and links to trustworthy resources.

Why Move-In Inspections Matter in Louisiana

Conducting a move-in inspection helps protect your security deposit and avoid unexpected repair bills. Louisiana law requires landlords to return security deposits minus actual damages, but you bear the burden of proving pre-existing issues.^[1] Meticulous documentation is key.

Essential Steps: What to Inspect Before Signing

Give yourself enough time to explore the rental, ideally with the landlord or property manager present. Use your phone to take timestamped photos or videos of each room. Here’s a detailed checklist:

• Locks & Doors: Test every lock, handle, and deadbolt. Doors should close securely.
• Windows: Open each window. Check for cracks, locks, and proper screens.
• Walls & Floors: Note holes, stains, water damage, or sagging floors.
• Plumbing: Turn on faucets, flush toilets, and inspect under sinks for leaks or mold.
• Electrical: Test outlets, switches, ceiling fans, and ensure all provided appliances function.
• Heating & Air: Start up the HVAC system and look for signs of neglect.
• Pest Problems: Look for droppings, gnawed surfaces, or live insects.
• Smoke/CO Detectors: Ensure these are present and operational as per state law.^[2]
• Provided Furniture: Document the condition of all items in a furnished unit.
• Exterior/Common Areas: Check mailboxes, laundry, and parking areas if shared.

Required Move-In Disclosures in Louisiana

While Louisiana does not require extensive disclosures, landlords must:

• Disclose presence of lead-based paint for rentals built before 1978.
• Return security deposits within one month after lease termination, less lawful deductions, per Louisiana law.^[1]

For lead disclosures, landlords must give you the federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form.

Official Move-In/Move-Out Checklist Forms

Louisiana does not mandate a specific state-issued move-in checklist, but both parties benefit from using one. You can use the HUD's Sample Move-in/Move-out Checklist as a reliable guide.

• Form Name: Move-in/Move-out Condition Checklist (HUD form 52580-A)
• When & How Used: Complete at move-in and move-out with the landlord, making notes on property condition. Both sign and keep copies.

For added protection, bring your own copy of this printable form to your inspection:

• HUD Move-in/Move-out Checklist (official form, PDF)

Which Agency Handles Rental Disputes in Louisiana?

Louisiana does not have a dedicated state tribunal for residential tenancies. Instead, disputes—such as security deposit disagreements—are handled in Louisiana civil courts (usually Small Claims or City Court). Always consult your local courthouse for procedures.

Relevant Louisiana Rental Laws

• Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2723: Lease of Things – Outlines basic landlord and tenant obligations, including maintenance and deposit return.
• Louisiana Attorney General’s Tenant Rights Guide – Official overview of renters’ legal rights and responsibilities.

How to Use a Move-In Checklist in Louisiana

You are not required by law to use an official checklist, but having one—signed and dated—gives strong proof if you later need to dispute deposit deductions or defend against unfair claims.

1. Download and print the HUD Move-in/Move-out Checklist.
2. Perform the inspection with the landlord or property manager before moving in.
3. Note all defects, damage, or missing features on the form. Take photos or videos as backup.
4. Sign and date the completed checklist. Request your landlord do the same.
5. Distribute copies: keep one for yourself and give one to your landlord. Optionally, email digital copies as further proof.

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana Move-In Inspections

1. Does Louisiana law require a move-in inspection checklist?
   No, the state does not mandate that a checklist be used, but it is strongly recommended for your protection.
2. How long do I have to report move-in defects?
   Report defects to your landlord in writing as soon as possible, ideally before moving in or within the first few days, to avoid being held responsible.
3. What if my landlord refuses to sign my move-in checklist?
   You can still complete, date, and send the checklist with photos to your landlord via certified mail or email, creating a clear record.
4. Where do I go if I have a deposit dispute in Louisiana?
   Deposit and damage disputes are handled by Louisiana civil courts—usually Small Claims or City Court in your parish.
5. Is the lead-based paint disclosure required for all rentals?
   Only if the property was built before 1978. Your landlord must provide the EPA's disclosure form.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• Always inspect the rental and complete a detailed move-in checklist—even though it’s not required by state law.
• Use timestamped photos and written notes for every issue found.
• Reference Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2723 for your core legal rights.

Taking these steps helps protect your deposit and proves your diligence as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Attorney General's Tenant Rights Guide – Know your rights and obligations
• Louisiana Courts – For filing disputes or small claims
• U.S. HUD Louisiana Renting Resources
• Louisiana State Bar Association Legal Help – Find tenant legal aid

---

1. Louisiana Civil Code Article 2683-2685, Lease of Things (Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2723)
2. Louisiana State Fire Marshal: Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

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