Need a Commercial Services Contract in Louisiana? AroundWire Can Help

In Louisiana, commercial services contracts—covering areas such as building maintenance, janitorial, landscaping, security, and similar offerings—are governed by a mix of state procurement statutes, local ordinances, and industry standards. Contracts typically require compliance with Louisiana Public Bid Law (La. R.S. 38:2211 et seq.) for public sector engagements, mandating competitive bidding above certain thresholds. Service providers must hold relevant state or local business licenses, and for specialized trades (e.g., electrical, HVAC), additional state-issued certifications may be necessary. Insurance requirements are stringent; contractors are generally obligated to maintain general liability, workers’ compensation, and, where applicable, professional liability coverage, with the state or client named as additional insured. Indemnification clauses are common, and Louisiana’s anti-indemnity statutes (La. R.S. 9:2780.1) limit the enforceability of certain hold-harmless provisions, especially in construction-related services. Payment terms in Louisiana often follow the state’s Prompt Payment Act (La. R.S. 9:2784), which sets timelines and penalties for late payments. Dispute resolution frequently favors mediation or arbitration before litigation; however, contracts must specify venue within Louisiana courts if litigation is chosen. Prevailing wage requirements may apply on public projects. Overall, contractors should be attentive to local government preferences, explicit insurance and licensing documentation, and clear definitions of service scope to mitigate risk and ensure compliance.