Tenant behind on rent? Damage beyond wear and tear? Holding over after the lease ended? Describe the situation in your own words and get a plain-English breakdown, severity rating, step-by-step next steps, and ready-to-send notices — specific to Hawaii law.
Get My Hawaii Action Plan — Free to StartUnder HRS § 521-44(c), the deposit must be returned with a written itemized statement and evidence of costs within 14 days of termination; failure to provide the notice forfeits any right to keep any of the deposit, and willful wrongful retention can yield three times the amount. Landlords must give at least 2 days' notice (48 hours) before non-emergency entry, and only during reasonable hours (HRS § 521-53(b)). Hawaii has no statutory rent grace period — late fees can begin immediately, but are capped at 8% of rent due. Self-help eviction is illegal under HRS § 521-63(c), which awards the tenant two months' rent or two months' free occupancy plus attorney's fees.
14 days after move-out, with an itemized statement for any deductions.
Landlords must generally give 48-hour notice before entering, except in emergencies.
No. Eviction requires a court process — lockouts, belongings removal, and utility shutoffs without a court order are illegal.
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii at 808-536-4302. You can also call or text 211 for local referrals.