Hawaii Residential Lease Agreement

Manager and owner/agent identification

Written disclosure at or before tenancy of name and address of each person authorized to manage the premises and each owner or agent for service of process and receipt of rent/notices.

Source: HRS § 521-43(a) (am L 1988, c 307, § 3)

On-island agent designation

Owner or landlord residing out of state or on another island must designate on the written rental agreement an agent residing on the same island as the unit.

Source: HRS § 521-43(f)

General excise tax number

Landlords must provide their general excise tax number to all tenants for purposes of the low-income tax credit.

Source: HRS § 521-43(h)

Move-in condition inventory

Before initial occupancy landlord must inventory the premises and furnishings in a written record, signed in duplicate by landlord and tenant, copy to each tenant.

Source: HRS § 521-42(a) (am L 1989, c 143, § 1)

How much security deposit can a landlord charge in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, the security deposit is limited to 1 month's rent, and it must be returned within 14 days after move-out (as of 2026). Source: Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44. Confirm the current rule before you sign.

Is this lease valid in Hawaii?

A written lease that identifies the parties, the property, the term, and the rent is generally enforceable in Hawaii once both sides sign. What it cannot do is contract around Hawaii law: the deposit rules, entry notice, and habitability duties below apply whether or not the lease mentions them.

How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Hawaii?

Hawaii requires at least 48 hours' notice for a non-emergency entry. Source: HRS § 521-53(b) (L 1972 c 132; gen ch 1985).

Can a landlord charge late fees in Hawaii?

Late charge, if provided in the rental agreement, may not exceed 8% of the rent due Source: HRS § 521-21(f) (am L 2017, c 179, § 1).

Can a tenant repair and deduct rent in Hawaii?

Yes. If landlord fails to commence repairs (12 business days after notice; 3 for essential facilities; 5 after agency violation notice), tenant may repair and deduct up to $500 (or $500/one month's rent with two estimates); cap 3 months' rent per 6 months. Source: HRS § 521-64 (am L 1995, c 42, § 1).

What does a landlord have to disclose in Hawaii?

Under Hawaii law: Manager and owner/agent identification (HRS § 521-43(a) (am L 1988, c 307, § 3)); On-island agent designation (HRS § 521-43(f)); General excise tax number (HRS § 521-43(h)); Move-in condition inventory (HRS § 521-42(a) (am L 1989, c 143, § 1)). Federal and local rules can add more; each item on this page links to the law it comes from.