Louisiana Tenant Rights for Mold in Rentals

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Louisiana and discover mold, you may be worried about your health, your security deposit, or your landlord’s responsibilities. Mold issues can affect your comfort and safety. Knowing your rights as a Louisiana renter can help you address these problems confidently and protect your wellbeing—and your tenancy.

Understanding Mold and Habitability in Louisiana Rentals

In Louisiana, landlords are legally responsible for providing habitable housing, which means your rental must be safe and livable. While Louisiana law does not specifically mention “mold,” it does require landlords to maintain the property and make necessary repairs that affect health or safety under the Louisiana Civil Code.^[1]

• You have a right to a rental that is free from dangerous or unhealthy conditions—including excessive mold growth.
• If mold is caused by a landlord’s failure to fix leaks, poor ventilation, or plumbing, the landlord is generally responsible for repairs.
• Tenants should notify their landlord about mold in writing as soon as possible and keep a copy for their records.

Steps for Louisiana Renters Dealing With Mold Problems

If you notice mold in your rental, you have practical steps you can take to protect your rights and health:

• Document the problem: Take dated photos of mold and the area affected.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Send a letter or email describing the mold, its location, and when it was discovered.
• Request repairs: Ask your landlord to investigate and fix the cause of the mold (such as leaks or broken windows).
• Keep records: Save all communications and evidence, such as repair requests and landlord replies.

What If the Landlord Does Not Respond or Repair?

If your landlord ignores your request or delays repairs, you have options:

• Contact local government health or code enforcement for an inspection.
• Consider submitting a written complaint to your parish or city housing office, if available. See the specific forms and contacts below.
• In some cases, tenants may have the option to terminate the lease if serious repairs are not made—but this should be done carefully and with legal advice.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Tenant Repair Request (Letter):
  When and how to use: Use a formal letter to notify your landlord of the mold and request repairs. Clearly state the location, how long the problem has existed, and request a written response.
  Example: "Dear Landlord, I am requesting immediate investigation and remediation of mold in the bathroom ceiling caused by a persistent leak. Please respond within 5 days."
• Louisiana Housing Complaint Form:
  When and how to use: Some parishes or cities have standardized forms for habitability complaints. For example, the City of New Orleans Code Enforcement Complaint Form allows renters in New Orleans to request inspections.
  Example: If your landlord does not fix the mold problem after you've notified them, and you live in New Orleans, complete and submit the complaint form online or in person to request a property inspection.

Always check with your local parish or city government for official forms appropriate for your area.

Which Agencies Handle Tenant-Landlord Disputes?

While Louisiana does not have a single statewide housing tribunal, most disputes—including those about mold—are ultimately handled by the Louisiana Courts (Justice of the Peace Court or Parish Court) if informal solutions fail. Code enforcement agencies may handle health and safety inspections.

• Contact your local court for landlord-tenant dispute procedures.
• For health or code issues, reach out to your city or parish code enforcement office.

Review your local resources before taking further legal steps and always keep documentation of all actions taken.

FAQ: Mold, Repairs, and Tenant Rights in Louisiana

1. What should I do first if I find mold in my Louisiana rental?
   Immediately document the mold with photos and send a written repair request to your landlord, keeping a copy for your records.
2. Can I withhold rent or move out if my landlord refuses to fix mold?
   Louisiana law does not automatically allow you to withhold rent, but you may be able to break your lease or seek reduction in rent for serious, unaddressed mold—consult your local court or legal aid before acting.
3. Are there official forms for mold complaints in Louisiana?
   Many parishes and cities offer complaint forms through code enforcement or housing departments; check your local government's official website.
4. How long must my landlord take to fix mold?
   The law requires "reasonable time" for repairs after notification. What counts as reasonable depends on the severity and urgency of the mold problem.
5. Who pays for mold testing or cleanup?
   If mold is caused by landlord neglect (like untreated leaks), they are typically responsible for the costs of necessary repairs and cleanup. Check your lease and local regulations.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• Louisiana renters have the legal right to a habitable, safe home.
• Prompt and documented communication with your landlord is essential for mold issues.
• Local courts and code enforcement agencies can help if your landlord is unresponsive.

By taking clear action, keeping thorough records, and using official channels, you can protect your health and your rights as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Louisiana

• Louisiana Courts Landlord-Tenant Information – For dispute procedures, lease questions, and forms
• New Orleans Code Enforcement – File housing complaints & request inspections
• Louisiana State Government Housing Resources – Find parish- and city-level contact information
• Louisiana Free Legal Answers – Submit questions to qualified attorneys (statewide)

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1. Louisiana Civil Code, Article 2691: Obligations of Lessor
2. Louisiana Supreme Court – Landlord-Tenant Resource
3. City of New Orleans Code Enforcement Complaint Form

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