Louisiana Revised Statute 9:3251 governs security deposits for all New Orleans rentals, requiring landlords to return deposits within one month after lease termination minus itemized lawful deductions, regardless of city-level rules.
Because Louisiana preempts most local landlord-tenant regulation, security deposit rules come from LA RS 9:3251 to 9:3254 rather than New Orleans ordinance. Landlords must return the deposit, less itemized deductions for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear, within one month of the tenant vacating and providing a forwarding address. Failure without good cause exposes the landlord to the deposit amount plus $300 or twice the deposit (whichever greater) in damages, plus reasonable attorney fees. Tenants pursue claims in First City Court of New Orleans for sums under $25,000.
Landlord failure to return deposit or itemize deductions within 30 days exposes them to the deposit value plus $300 or double damages, whichever is greater, plus attorney fees.
See how New Orleans's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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