Scams & Consumer Issues in Louisiana

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Louisiana Law

Louisiana Revised Statutes Section 51:1405 (Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law)

Louisiana's Unfair Trade Practices Act (LUTPA) prohibits unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce.

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Procedural Details in Louisiana

Louisiana's LUTPA (La. R.S. 51:1401 et seq.) has a distinctive limitation: private lawsuits under LUTPA may only be brought by a person who suffers an ascertainable loss of money or movable property as a result of an unfair or deceptive act. Courts have interpreted LUTPA narrowly, requiring conduct that amounts to more than mere breach of contract or misrepresentation — the deception must be egregious. Successful plaintiffs may recover actual damages, treble damages for knowing violations, and attorney fees under La. R.S. 51:1409. The statute of limitations is one year from the occurrence of the unlawful trade practice under La. R.S. 51:1409(E) — one of the shortest in the country. The Louisiana AG enforces LUTPA with broader authority. Louisiana requires contractors to be licensed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors under La. R.S. 37:2150 for projects over $50,000 (residential) or $75,000 (commercial). Smaller residential projects may require local permits.

Louisiana Agencies & Resources

Louisiana Attorney General — Consumer Protection Section

Enforces LUTPA and accepts consumer fraud complaints from Louisiana residents.

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Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

Licenses contractors and handles complaints about contractor fraud in Louisiana.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for consumer fraud in Louisiana?

One year from the date of the unfair or deceptive trade practice under La. R.S. 51:1409(E). Louisiana's one-year period is among the shortest in the country — act quickly to preserve your rights.

How does Louisiana's LUTPA differ from other states?

Louisiana courts have interpreted LUTPA narrowly, requiring conduct beyond ordinary breach of contract or misrepresentation. The deceptive conduct must be egregious or fraudulent. Private standing is more limited than in many other states.

What remedies are available under LUTPA?

Successful plaintiffs may recover actual damages, treble damages for knowing violations, and attorney fees under La. R.S. 51:1409.

Does Louisiana require contractor licensing?

Yes. Louisiana requires contractors to be licensed by the State Licensing Board for Contractors for projects over $50,000 residential or $75,000 commercial. Verify licenses at lslbc.louisiana.gov before hiring.

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