Overview
Louisiana’s security deposit laws are governed by Louisiana Revised Statutes § 9:3251–3254. These laws set clear expectations for how landlords must handle security deposits, including rules around collection, storage, return, and deductions.
While there is no cap on the amount a landlord can charge, there are firm deadlines for returning deposits and requirements for providing itemized statements of any deductions. Failure to comply can result in penalties.
This guide covers:
How much landlords can charge
Rules for returning deposits
Permissible deductions
Penalties for violations
Related Statute: La. R.S. § 9:3251–3254
1. Security Deposit Limits & Storage Requirements
Maximum deposit: Louisiana does not place a legal limit on the amount landlords may charge for a security deposit. The amount is typically agreed upon in the lease.
Storage requirements: There are no specific requirements to hold the deposit in a separate or interest-bearing account.
Law Reference: La. R.S. § 9:3251
2. Security Deposit Returns & Allowable Deductions
Return deadline: Landlords must return the security deposit, or the remaining balance, within 30 days after the end of the lease and the tenant’s vacating of the premises.
Permissible deductions: Landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and any breach of lease terms.
Itemized statement required: If any deductions are made, an itemized list must be provided to the tenant within the same 30-day period.
Law Reference: La. R.S. § 9:3251(B)
3. Penalties for Mishandling Security Deposits
Liability for withholding: If a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized list within 30 days, they may be liable for the amount withheld in bad faith.
Tenant remedies: If the landlord is found to have acted in bad faith, they may owe the tenant actual damages and an additional $200, plus reasonable attorney fees and court costs.
Law Reference: La. R.S. § 9:3252
Key Takeaways
Louisiana law does not cap the amount of security deposit a landlord can charge.
Deposits must be returned within 30 days of lease termination and move-out.
Landlords must provide an itemized list of deductions if any are made.
Failure to return the deposit in good faith may result in penalties, including damages, fees, and additional compensation to the tenant.
Following Louisiana’s security deposit rules helps ensure transparency and avoids costly disputes for both landlords and tenants.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should not act or refrain from acting based on any information included in this post without seeking legal counsel or other professional guidance specific to their situation. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the content. Laws and regulations may change and vary by jurisdiction.
