The short answer
Louisiana generally requires the landlord to return the security deposit within one month after the lease terminates.
If the landlord keeps any portion, the landlord must send an itemized statement accounting for what was kept and why.
Watch the written-demand step
The one-month rule is not the whole story.
Louisiana's stronger statutory damages are tied to the written-demand and willful-failure sequence. If the landlord does not return the deposit or send a proper itemized statement, make a written demand for the refund and keep proof.
Failure to remit within 30 days after written demand can constitute willful failure.
Give a forwarding address
Louisiana says the tenant shall furnish the landlord a forwarding address at lease termination.
Give it in writing. Keep a copy, email, text screenshot, certified-mail receipt, mailing receipt, or other proof.
If the landlord keeps money
The itemized statement should explain what was retained and why.
Louisiana allows retention only as reasonably necessary to remedy tenant default or unreasonable wear to the premises. Keep the dispute focused on whether each charge fits that rule.
Abandonment issue
The ordinary one-month return and itemization rule does not apply the same way when the tenant abandons the premises without required notice or before lease termination.
If abandonment is being claimed, preserve your move-out notice, possession-return proof, messages, and lease-end facts.
Official sources used for this guide
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Related
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.