When Can Louisiana Landlords Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs?

Renters in Louisiana often wonder about the rules on rent increases, especially when landlords mention rising costs or "pass-through" charges. While many states have rent control laws, Louisiana handles rent increases differently. Understanding your protections and what counts as legitimate pass-through costs is essential for every renter in the state.

How Does Louisiana Handle Rent Increases?

Louisiana does not have state-wide rent control or rent stabilization. This means landlords are typically allowed to raise the rent by any amount, as long as they give proper notice and follow the lease terms. However, rents cannot be increased mid-lease unless the agreement allows it.

Common reasons for rent increases include rises in property taxes, insurance, or repair costs; sometimes, landlords refer to these as “pass-through” expenses. If your lease is up for renewal, your landlord can propose a higher rent or new charges, but you must agree to and sign the renewal for it to take effect.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

"Pass-through costs" are expenses a landlord incurs and then passes on to tenants by raising the rent. In Louisiana, since there is no rent regulation, pass-through charges may include:

• Increased property taxes
• Insurance hikes
• Major building repairs or maintenance
• New utility charges if previously included in rent

However, these increases can generally only occur:

• At the end of your lease, when renewing or signing a new agreement
• Upon 10 days' written notice for month-to-month tenancies
• If specifically allowed by your lease contract for mid-term increases

Your Rights and Required Notice

Landlords in Louisiana must provide proper notice before increasing rent for any reason, including pass-through costs:

• 10 days’ written notice for month-to-month tenants
• For fixed-term leases, no rent rise is allowed during the lease unless your contract has a specific clause permitting such increases

Proper written notice allows you to decide if you wish to renew, negotiate, or move out before the higher rent takes effect.

Official Forms: Notice of Rent Increase

Although there is no official statewide form specifically titled “Notice of Rent Increase” in Louisiana, landlords must provide you with a written notice. Here’s how this process typically works:

• Notice of Rent Increase: No specific form number; landlords usually draft their own written notice stating the new rent, effective date, and reason (such as increased costs).
• When and How Used: For example, if your lease is month-to-month and the landlord wishes to increase rent due to increased insurance rates, they must give you at least 10 days’ written notice before the new amount applies. The notice can be hand-delivered or sent by mail.
• Where to find more information: The Louisiana Attorney General’s guide to Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities explains these requirements.

Which Tribunal Handles Residential Tenancies?

Louisiana does not have a separate residential tenancies tribunal. Disputes about rent, eviction, or terms are handled by local Parish Courts or District Courts of Louisiana.

Relevant Louisiana Rental Laws

The main laws for renters’ rights and landlord obligations in Louisiana are found in the Louisiana Civil Code Article 2668 (Lease Provisions) and related articles. These set the basic rules for agreements, rent increases, and tenant protections.^[1]

Action Steps for Renters Facing a Rent Increase for Pass-Through Costs

If your landlord raises your rent, here are the key actions you should take:

• Check your lease agreement to see if mid-term increases are allowed
• Review the notice for correct timing (at least 10 days for month-to-month tenancies)
• Consider negotiating with your landlord if you believe the increase is unfair
• If you do not agree with the increase, you can move out before the new rent takes effect
• If you believe your landlord is violating the law, you can seek assistance from your Parish Court or consult resources from the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office – Consumer Protection

Frequently Asked Questions about Louisiana Rent Increases

1. Can my landlord raise the rent at any time?
   No. For fixed-term leases, rent cannot be increased during the lease period unless your agreement specifically says so. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must give 10 days’ written notice.
2. Is there a limit to how much my rent can be increased for pass-through costs?
   No state law in Louisiana limits the amount of a rent increase. Landlords may increase rent by any amount after proper notice and at lease renewal.
3. Do I have to accept the rent increase?
   No, you are not required to accept. If you do not agree, you can choose to move out before the higher rent takes effect, after giving proper notice required by your lease.
4. What should I do if I feel the rent increase is unfair?
   First, communicate with your landlord in writing. If the issue isn’t resolved, you may contact your local Parish Court or the Louisiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section.
5. Is there an official form for notification of rent increases?
   No official state-wide form exists. A written notice with the new rent amount and effective date is sufficient.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• No rent control in Louisiana: rent increases for pass-through costs are allowed with proper notice.
• Month-to-month tenants require 10 days’ written notice; fixed-term leases cannot change unless specifically allowed.
• Keep documentation and respond in writing when needed. Seek help from official state resources if you have concerns.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Attorney General: Consumer Protection Section – Information and complaint forms for renters and consumers
• Louisiana Supreme Court – Find Your Parish or District Court
• LawHelp Louisiana – Free legal information and links to local legal aid programs
• Louisiana Civil Code Article 2668 – Lease Law

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1. Louisiana Civil Code – Lease Provisions, Article 2668
2. Louisiana Attorney General – Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities (PDF)

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