Louisiana Evictions: Is Louisiana a Self-Help Eviction State?

No. Louisiana is not a self-help eviction state.

Landlords cannot legally evict a tenant without going through the court system—even when rent is unpaid or a lease has expired.



This misconception leads to some of the most expensive landlord mistakes we see. Changing locks, cutting utilities, or removing a tenant’s belongings without a court order can expose a landlord to serious legal liability.

What Is a Self-Help Eviction?

A self-help eviction occurs when a landlord tries to force a tenant out without a court-ordered eviction. In Louisiana, common examples of illegal self-help evictions include:

• Changing or re-keying the locks
• Shutting off water, electricity, or gas
• Removing doors, windows, or appliances
• Throwing away or seizing a tenant’s personal property
• Harassment or intimidation to make the tenant leave

These actions are illegal in Louisiana residential eviction cases, regardless of the reason for eviction.

Louisiana Requires Court-Ordered Evictions

In Louisiana, only a judge can order an eviction. Ownership of the property alone does not give a landlord the right to remove a tenant.

Even if:

• Rent has not been paid
• The lease has expired
• The tenant violated the lease
• The landlord wants the property back

The landlord must follow the Louisiana eviction process set out in state law.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation with an experienced real estate attorney, contact Johnston Burkhardt at johnston@snw.lawor 504-313-4199.