How do I dispute a security deposit return in Louisiana?

Louisiana's deposit statute is La. R.S. 9:3251–9:3254 (different from the rest of the country because Louisiana uses civil law, not common law).

1. 1-Month Return Rule

Within one month after termination of the lease and delivery of the keys, the landlord must return the deposit (less lawful deductions) along with an itemized written statement to the tenant at the forwarding address provided in writing (La. R.S. 9:3251(A)).

2. Forwarding Address Required

The tenant must provide a forwarding address in writing to trigger the landlord's obligation. Without it, the landlord's duties under § 3251 do not arise (§ 9:3251(B)).

3. Allowed vs. Prohibited Deductions

Permitted: unpaid rent, damages from acts or negligence of the tenant beyond normal wear and tear. Prohibited: ordinary wear and tear, routine cleaning, repainting after a long tenancy.

4. Bad-Faith Penalty

A landlord who in bad faith fails to comply with the return obligation is liable for actual damages or $300, whichever is greater, plus reasonable attorney's fees and court costs (§ 9:3252).

5. Notice Requirement Before Suit

Before filing, the tenant should give the landlord written notice. Bad faith is a question of fact; willful non-compliance after demand is strong evidence.

6. Court & Limitations

File in Louisiana justice of the peace court (up to $5,000), city court (up to $20,000–$50,000 depending on the city), or parish court. The prescription period (Louisiana's term for statute of limitations) is 3 years for rent and lease-related actions (La. Civ. Code art. 3494) or 10 years for general personal actions (art. 3499).

This is legal information, not legal advice.