Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Louisiana

My sister is living in a rental property in New Orleans, LA. It is managed by a corporation with local offices for each area. Her air is barely blowing. It has been 6wks. since we asked for repairs. We offered to put other window units in but the breaker keeps blowing and the maintance man says we can't. Today he was very rude when my mom called about it. When she asked to speak to someone higher he said, he was it. Are their laws that force landlords to have working air in there. It is staying about 87 to 90 in there. Also, if it is not fixed can the lease be broken? Is there an agency I can call for assistance to force him. A regulatory agency or something?


Asked on 7/27/10, 8:52 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Adam Lambert The Law Office of Adam S. Lambert

In Louisiana, a landlord must make all neccessary repairs called for in the lease. If he fails to do so, you can make the repairs yourself and deduct the amount of the repairs from your rent. You must first make the demand to the landlord in writing. Then, if the landlord fails to make the repair within a reasonable time after you have made the demand in writing, you can hire a professional to make the repairs. Keep the receipt and you can deduct that amount from your rent payment. The landlord is legally bound to accept the receipt as payment towards your rent.

Read more
Answered on 7/29/10, 6:39 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Real Estate and Real Property questions and answers in Louisiana