Louisiana Security Deposit Law: Deadlines & Penalties
Louisiana requires a landlord to return a residential security deposit within one month after the lease ends. The landlord may keep only the part that is reasonably needed to cover a tenant's default, such as unpaid rent, or to repair unreasonable wear to the property. Normal wear from everyday living is not a valid reason to keep money from the deposit.
If the landlord keeps any portion, they must send an itemized statement of the reasons. A 2026 amendment, Act 63, gives landlords up to 15 extra days after the one-month mark to send that statement. The tenant is expected to give the landlord a forwarding address when the lease ends, and these rules do not apply if the tenant abandoned the unit without the required notice or before the lease ended.
Louisiana's penalty is tied to a written demand. If the landlord does not send the refund within 30 days after the tenant's written demand, the failure is treated as willful. The tenant can then recover the amount wrongfully kept plus $300 or twice that amount, whichever is greater, and the court may also award costs and legal fees to the side that wins.
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Louisiana: common questions
How long does a Louisiana landlord have to return a deposit?
One month after the lease ends. If part of the deposit is kept, a 2026 change to the law allows the itemized statement explaining the deductions to follow within an additional 15 days. The refund of the balance is still due within the one-month window.
Why does a written demand matter in Louisiana?
Louisiana's penalty depends on it. If the landlord fails to send the refund within 30 days after receiving your written demand, the law treats the failure as willful, which opens the door to extra damages. Keep a copy of this letter and your proof of mailing.
What can I recover if my Louisiana landlord keeps my deposit?
For a willful failure, a court can award the portion wrongfully kept plus $300 or twice that amount, whichever is greater. The court may also, in its discretion, order the losing side to pay court costs and legal fees.
Where can I sue for my deposit in Louisiana?
City courts in many parishes have small claims divisions that hear cases up to $5,000, not counting interest, court costs, legal fees or penalties. You can file in the parish where the landlord lives or the parish where the rental property is located.
Compare nearby states
| State | Return deadline | Itemized list | Small claims limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | See statute | Required | $5,000 |
| Arkansas | 60 days | Required | $5,000 |
| Mississippi | 45 days | Required | $3,500 (justice court) |
| Texas | 30 days | Required | $20,000 (justice court) |
| Alabama | 60 days | Required | $6,000 |
| Alaska | See statute | Required | $10,000 |
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