Louisiana Property Disclosure Document
Louisiana Revised Statutes §9:3196–9:3200 require sellers of residential property to complete a Property Disclosure Document and deliver it to buyers before or within 10 days of entering a purchase agreement. Buyers may rescind within 3 days of receipt.
The form covers:
Flood History — Critical in New Orleans
Orleans and Jefferson parishes have extensive FEMA flood zones. Under federal law (Biggert-Waters Act), sellers must disclose if the property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). Flood insurance can cost $2,000–$8,000/year in high-risk areas.
Louisiana also requires disclosure of any known flood damage history — including Katrina, Ida, or other events. This is material and buyers will discover it through inspection and insurance records.
Lead Paint
Required for pre-1978 homes. A large portion of New Orleans housing stock predates 1978.
Louisiana Notarial Act Requirement
Louisiana is a notarial law state under civil law. The act of sale must be executed before a Louisiana notary public (who is typically an attorney). This is required by law — a notary must authenticate all real estate transfers under Louisiana Civil Code.
Act 1306 (2003)
Louisiana Act 1306 governs seller disclosure and provides certain protections to sellers who complete the disclosure form in good faith. However, intentional non-disclosure remains actionable.
Transfer Tax
Louisiana has no statewide real estate transfer tax. Some parishes may charge nominal recording fees.
Download Louisiana disclosure forms and find flat fee MLS services.