How to Deliver an Eviction Notice in Louisiana: The Official Legal Methods
Starting an eviction in Louisiana is a legal process that demands precision from the very first step. When learning how to legally deliver an eviction notice in Louisiana, it’s important to know that a simple mistake in how you deliver the initial eviction notice can cause a judge to dismiss your case. This forces you to start over while costing you time and lost rent. This is the first post in our series on Louisiana evictions.
As of Sunday, September 28, 2025, understanding the correct procedure is key to a successful eviction. Therefore, this guide will walk you through the legally required methods and common pitfalls to avoid.
What is a Louisiana Notice to Vacate?
A Notice to Vacate is a formal, written document that informs your tenant they must leave the property. The most common type is the 5-Day Notice to Vacate, which landlords typically use for non-payment of rent or other lease violations.
However, it’s crucial to check your lease first. Many Louisiana leases contain a “waiver of notice” clause. If this is in your lease, you may not need to give the 5-Day Notice at all. Instead, you can proceed directly to filing a lawsuit. If there is no waiver, you must provide the notice, and the law governs how you deliver it.
The Two Legal Methods for Delivering the Notice
Louisiana law specifies exactly how you must deliver a Notice to Vacate. Using any other method can invalidate your notice.
1. Personal Service 🚶♂️
First, the preferred method is Personal Service. This means you deliver the notice by physically handing it to the tenant. This method ensures they receive it and creates a clear record of delivery.
2. Tacking (Posting on the Door) 🚪
Alternatively, if you cannot find the tenant for personal service, the law allows for “tacking.” This means you must securely affix the notice to the front door of the property. It should be placed in a visible and obvious location. You should only use this method after you’ve made a reasonable attempt to deliver it in person.
❌ Common Delivery Mistakes to Avoid
Many well-meaning landlords can invalidate their evictions by making these simple mistakes.
- Text Message or Email: First, Louisiana law does not consider sending a notice by text or email a legally valid method of delivery. You must use personal or tacked service.
- Certified Mail: Second, while it seems official, the law does not prescribe certified mail as one of the methods for the initial Notice to Vacate. If the tenant refuses to sign for it, it can cause significant delays.
- Poor Documentation: Finally, forgetting to record the exact date, time, and method of delivery can weaken your case if the tenant claims they never received the notice.
Why Professional Delivery is the Smartest Choice
While you can deliver the notice yourself, using a professional process server like Lafayette Process Servers LLC is a strategic decision.
- It Creates an Unbiased Record: A process server provides a formal Affidavit of Service. This creates an undisputed, third-party record that you delivered the notice correctly.
- It Avoids Confrontation: In addition, delivering an eviction notice can be a tense situation. Using a professional keeps you at a safe distance.
- It Guarantees Legal Compliance: Ultimately, we ensure every step is done right, setting your case up for success from day one.
In conclusion, don’t let a simple delivery error derail your eviction. Whether you need a 5-Day Notice delivered or a formal court summons served, trust the experts.
Contact Lafayette Process Servers LLC today to handle all your legal document delivery needs.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog post provides general information and is not a substitute for legal advice. Furthermore, landlord-tenant law is complex. Always consult your lease agreement and speak with a qualified Louisiana attorney regarding your specific situation.
📚 Sources & Further Reading
- Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure, Art. 4703: The state law outlining the methods for delivering a Notice to Vacate. Link to Louisiana Legislature
- Sample Louisiana 5-Day Notice to Vacate Form: A downloadable PDF example of the Notice to Quit form. Link to Sample PDF Form
- Louisiana State Bar Association (LSBA) Eviction Guide: A helpful overview of the eviction process from the LSBA. Link to LSBA PDF Document
- LouisianaLawHelp.org: A non-profit resource on the eviction process. Link to LouisianaLawHelp.org
- Lafayette Process Servers LLC: Your expert for service of all legal documents in Louisiana. Link to Lafayette Process Servers LLC
- Louisiana Eviction Notice: 5, 10, or 0 Days?