Shreveport Security Deposit Return Rules

Housing and Building Standards Louisiana 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Louisiana

In Shreveport, Louisiana, landlords must follow municipal requirements where they exist and state landlord-tenant law where the city code is silent. This guide explains how the City of Shreveport addresses security deposit returns, which department enforces local standards, what the municipal code pages show (or do not specify), and practical steps landlords and tenants should take when a deposit dispute arises.

Overview of Applicable Law

The City of Shreveport consolidates local ordinances in the municipal code; however, detailed landlord-tenant rules such as specific timelines and calculation methods for security deposit returns are not always set at the city level and may be governed by Louisiana state law or by the lease. For the city code and local enforcement contact, see the municipal code and Code Enforcement pages[1][2].

Penalties & Enforcement

Where the municipal code addresses property maintenance, enforcement is handled by the city's Code Enforcement or Building Services division. Fine amounts and statutory timelines for security deposit returns are not specified on the cited municipal pages; landlords should consult state law and the lease for binding time limits and damages.

Document inspections and communications carefully.
  • Enforcing office: City of Shreveport Code Enforcement / Building Services (see contact pages).[2]
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited municipal code page.[1]
  • Escalation: first vs repeat or continuing offences — not specified on the cited municipal page.
  • Non-monetary remedies: orders to repair, abatement, or court actions may be available via city enforcement or civil court.
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: file a complaint with City Code Enforcement or Building Services (contact link below).
  • Appeal/review: appeals or civil claims typically proceed through municipal hearing procedures or civil court—time limits not specified on the cited municipal page.

Applications & Forms

The City of Shreveport does not publish a city-specific “security deposit return” form on its municipal code pages; landlords commonly use a lease addendum, itemized statement and copies of receipts. For official filing of complaints or code violation reports, use the city complaint/contact forms linked in Resources below.

Check the Code Enforcement contact page before filing a complaint.

Practical Steps for Landlords

  • Keep a signed lease that documents the security deposit amount and permitted deductions.
  • Perform and document a move-out inspection with dated photos and receipts.
  • Provide an itemized list of deductions and return any remaining funds; follow any state-prescribed timelines where applicable.
  • If a tenant disputes the return, respond in writing and, if unresolved, file a complaint with city code enforcement or pursue civil remedies.

FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Shreveport?
That specific timeline is not specified on the cited municipal pages; landlords should review the lease and applicable Louisiana state law or seek guidance from Code Enforcement.[1]
Can a landlord deduct cleaning and repairs from the deposit?
Yes, allowed deductions typically cover unpaid rent, repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear, and unpaid utilities if the lease permits; itemize deductions and retain receipts.
Where do I file a complaint about an improper deposit withholding?
Start with the City of Shreveport Code Enforcement or Building Services complaint channels; if needed, pursue civil court or state remedies.

How-To

  1. Review the lease and gather documentation: lease, move-in checklist, photos, receipts.
  2. Conduct and document a move-out inspection with dated photos and written notes.
  3. Prepare an itemized list of deductions with receipts and calculate the refund amount.
  4. Send the itemized statement and refund to the tenant and retain proof of delivery; if contested, contact Code Enforcement or pursue civil remedies.

Key Takeaways

  • Shreveport municipal pages may not specify deposit timelines; check state law and the lease.
  • Document inspections and keep receipts to support deductions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Shreveport Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Shreveport official website - Code Enforcement / Building Services

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