What is the security deposit limit in Hawaii?

Hawaii limits security deposits to 1 month's rent — one of the lowest caps in the US. This protects tenants from large upfront costs in Hawaii's expensive rental market.

How much notice must a Hawaii landlord give before entering?

Hawaii requires 2 business days advance notice before entry, except in emergencies. Entry must occur at reasonable times.

Does Hawaii have rent control?

No. Hawaii has no rent control. Given Hawaii's extremely high cost of living, rent increases can be substantial at renewal.

What makes Hawaii leases unique?

Hawaii has strict leasehold land structures — many residential properties are built on leased land rather than owned land. Check whether a property is fee simple or leasehold, as leasehold properties have their own complex lease obligations.

How long does a Hawaii landlord have to return a security deposit?

14 days from move-out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of deductions. Failure to return timely may entitle the tenant to double damages.

Hawaii Tenant Rights & Lease Laws

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit Varies

Return Deadline 14 days after move-out

Interest Required No

Notice Requirements

Landlord Entry Notice 24 hours

Lease Termination Notice (Month-to-Month) 30 days

Rent Increase Notice 30 days

Auto-renewal clauses with tight notice windows in a market where alternatives are scarce. Commercial leases in Waikiki with percentage rent provisions tied to tourist foot traffic — these can vary dramatically. Lease provisions attempting to shift property insurance obligations to tenants.

Rent Control

Rent Control: No statewide rent control

Habitability & Repair Requirements

Hawaii landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition. Hawaii is strongly tenant-protective with a 1-month deposit cap, 2-day entry notice requirement, and strong habitability protections. The challenge is market tightness rather than weak law — Honolulu's vacancy is so low that tenant bargaining power is nearly zero despite the protective legal framework.

Eviction Process

Honolulu is the dominant market. Residential rents average $2,400–3,500/month for a 1-bedroom in desirable neighborhoods. Maui's market has been significantly disrupted by the 2023 Lahaina fires. Commercial rents in downtown Honolulu for Class A office run $4–6/sqft/month. Retail on Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki commands some of the highest per-sqft rents in the country.

Tenant Protections & Notable Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security deposit limit in Hawaii?: Hawaii limits security deposits to 1 month's rent — one of the lowest caps in the US. This protects tenants from large upfront costs in Hawaii's expensive rental market.
How much notice must a Hawaii landlord give before entering?: Hawaii requires 2 business days advance notice before entry, except in emergencies. Entry must occur at reasonable times.
Does Hawaii have rent control?: No. Hawaii has no rent control. Given Hawaii's extremely high cost of living, rent increases can be substantial at renewal.
What makes Hawaii leases unique?: Hawaii has strict leasehold land structures — many residential properties are built on leased land rather than owned land. Check whether a property is fee simple or leasehold, as leasehold properties have their own complex lease obligations.
How long does a Hawaii landlord have to return a security deposit?: 14 days from move-out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of deductions. Failure to return timely may entitle the tenant to double damages.

Cities in Hawaii

Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in Hawaii: