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Louisiana security deposit law
Short answer: A Louisiana landlord must return the deposit within one month after the lease ends. If any of it is kept, a 2026 change gives the landlord up to 15 more days after that month to send the itemized statement. State law sets no limit on the deposit amount.
| Deadline to return the deposit | One month after the lease ends to return the deposit. If anything is kept, the itemized statement is due within one month, or within 15 days after that one-month date (a 2026 amendment). |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | No limit in state law. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. An itemized statement accounting for whatever is kept and the reasons for it. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who willfully fails to comply owes the amount wrongly kept plus $300 or twice the amount wrongly kept, whichever is greater. Not paying within 30 days after the tenant's written demand counts as willful. The court may also award costs and attorney's fees to the winner. |
| What the tenant has to do | Give the landlord a forwarding address when the lease ends. Send a written demand for the refund if it doesn't arrive. |
| The law | Louisiana Revised Statutes 9:3251 to 9:3254 |
Official law: Louisiana Revised Statutes 9:3251 to 9:3254. Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- The landlord can keep only what's reasonably needed to cover the tenant's default or unreasonable wear to the premises.
- These return rules don't apply if the tenant abandons the unit without the required notice or before the lease ends.
- If the property is sold, the deposit transfers to the new owner, who becomes responsible for returning it.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Louisiana?
One month after the lease ends to return the deposit. If anything is kept, the itemized statement is due within one month, or within 15 days after that one-month date (a 2026 amendment).
Is there a limit on security deposits in Louisiana?
No limit in state law.
Does a landlord in Louisiana have to itemize deductions?
Yes. An itemized statement accounting for whatever is kept and the reasons for it.