How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Louisiana?
Generally one month after the lease terminates.
If the landlord keeps any part of the deposit, the landlord must send an itemized statement accounting for what was kept and why.
What if the landlord keeps part of the deposit?
The landlord should identify the amount retained and the reason for keeping it.
Louisiana allows retention only as reasonably necessary to remedy tenant default or unreasonable wear to the premises.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized statement?
Yes, if any portion of the deposit is retained.
The itemized statement should account for the retained amount and explain the reasons.
Should I give a forwarding address?
Yes. Louisiana says the tenant shall furnish a forwarding address at lease termination.
Give it in writing and keep proof.
Do I need to make a written demand?
If the landlord does not return the deposit or send a proper itemized statement, yes. Make a written demand and keep proof that it was sent.
The written demand matters because Louisiana's willful-failure rule is tied to what happens after demand.
What happens if the landlord still does not return the money after written demand?
Failure to remit within 30 days after written demand can constitute willful failure.
Willful failure can support recovery of the wrongfully retained amount plus $300 or twice the wrongfully retained amount, whichever is greater.
What proof should I keep?
Keep the lease, deposit payment proof, move-out photos, possession-return proof, forwarding-address proof, written demand, mailing or delivery proof, itemized statement, refund records, and landlord messages.
What if the landlord says I abandoned the rental?
Louisiana's ordinary one-month return and itemization rule does not apply the same way when the tenant abandons the premises.
If abandonment is being claimed, keep proof of your move-out notice, lease-end date, possession return, and communications.
Is there a statewide Louisiana deposit cap?
The Louisiana R.S. 9:3251 source stack used for this guide does not identify a statewide deposit cap.
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.