Security Deposit Laws in Louisiana

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Louisiana?

Under La. Rev. Stat. §§ 9:3251 - 9:3254, a landlord in Louisiana has 30 days after you move out to either return your full security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions along with any remaining balance.

Important Louisiana-specific details

Tenant must give proper written notice before vacating (30 days for year lease; 10 days for month-to-month) and provide a forwarding address. Statute does not apply if tenant abandons the property or breaks lease prematurely. No cap on deposit amount.

What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Louisiana?

Missing the deadline has real consequences for landlords in Louisiana. Under the statute, the penalty is: Per § 9:3252 (as amended effective 2019), willful failure entitles tenant to recover the wrongfully withheld portion plus $300 OR 2x the wrongfully withheld amount, whichever is greater. Court may also award costs and attorney's fees. Failure to remit within 30 days of written demand constitutes willful failure.

In practice, this means if your landlord doesn't return the deposit (or a proper itemized statement) within 30 days, you likely have a strong case in small claims court.

What can the landlord legally deduct from your deposit in Louisiana?

Louisiana law generally allows landlords to deduct for:

• Unpaid rent
• Damage to the unit beyond normal wear and tear — holes in walls, broken fixtures, stains, pet damage
• Cleaning costs, if the unit is left noticeably dirtier than at move-in
• Breach-of-lease costs, such as early termination fees where legally permitted

Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet from regular use, minor scuffs, or small nail holes from hanging pictures.

Calculator: check your deposit situation

Enter your move-out date and deposit amount below to see exactly when your landlord's deadline is — and whether they've already missed it.

What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Louisiana

1. Send a demand letter by certified mail. Cite La. Rev. Stat. §§ 9:3251 - 9:3254 and the amount owed. Keep a copy and the delivery receipt.
2. Give the landlord a reasonable response window — typically 7 to 14 days after the demand letter.
3. File in small claims court. In most states you can sue for up to $5,000–$10,000 without a lawyer. Filing fees are usually $30–$75 and often recoverable as costs.
4. Bring evidence. Lease, move-in and move-out photos, the demand letter, proof of delivery, and any communications with the landlord.

For a complete walkthrough, see our guide: What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit.