Louisiana Landlord Tenant Rights

Can a Landlord Enter Without Permission in Louisiana?

This question is about Louisiana Landlord Tenant Rights

In Louisiana, landlord entry is primarily governed by the lease agreement and the Louisiana Civil Code. While the state does not have a statute requiring a specific notice period (like 24 or 48 hours), the law protects the tenant’s right to “peaceful possession.”

Legal Entry Without Prior Permission

Under Louisiana law and current 2026 interpretations, a landlord may enter without immediate consent in the following cases:

  • True Emergencies: Immediate entry is permitted for crises that threaten life or property, such as an active fire, gas leak, or a major water pipe burst ( La. Civ. Code art. 2700).

  • Abandonment: If the tenant has clearly vacated the premises permanently without notice, the landlord may enter to secure or re-rent the property.

  • Court Order: Entry is permitted if a judge has issued an order specifically authorizing it.

Standard Entry and Tenant Obligations

For non-emergencies like repairs, inspections, or showing the unit:

  • The Lease Controls: Because Louisiana law is silent on notice hours, the written lease agreement is the final authority. If your lease requires 24 hours’ notice, the landlord must provide it.

  • Peaceful Possession: Under La. Civ. Code art. 2682, the landlord is bound to “protect the lessee’s peaceful possession” during the lease. Unannounced or intrusive entries can be legally considered a breach of this duty.

  • Reasonable Notice: In practice, Louisiana courts and the Louisiana Department of Justice recommend a 24-hour notice as the standard for “reasonableness” to avoid claims of harassment.

  • Implied Permission for Repairs: If a tenant requests repairs ( La. Civ. Code art. 2694), the landlord is generally granted implied permission to enter at a reasonable time to address the issue.

2026 Legal Landscape

  • Healthy Homes Initiatives: In cities like New Orleans, updated 2025/2026 ordinances require more frequent inspections for minimum rental standards. While this grants landlords a valid reason to enter, they must still coordinate with tenants in accordance with the lease.

  • Constructive Eviction: If a landlord repeatedly violates your privacy by entering without notice, it may be legally classified as “constructive eviction,” allowing the tenant to terminate the lease and seek damages.

Questions? To chat with a landlord tenant attorney, Click here

The information for this answer was found on our Louisiana Landlord Tenant Rights answers.

Related questions