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Landlord-Tenant Claims

As a landlord or tenant, it is important that you understand your rights and responsibilities. They relate to security deposits, repairs, termination of tenancy and other aspects of a rental property agreement.

If you feel the other party is violating the Hawai`i Landlord-tenant Code or your lease agreement terms, you may take legal action to resolve your case. Residential landlord-tenant cases are filed in the District Court.

In this section, we provide you with information about landlord-tenant conduct and how you can proceed with your legal matter.

STAE (Steps to Avoid Eviction)

The Hawaii State Judiciary is a participant in a grassroots effort called STAE (Steps to Avoid Eviction). STAE’s mission is to find ways to ensure that landlords get paid the rent they are owed and tenants are not evicted, by encouraging tenants and landlords to use available resources in a more timely and effective manner.

Hawai`i Landlord-tenant Handbook

Get a copy of the handbook and answers to more questions at the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website.

Getting Legal Help

This information is not a substitute for legal counsel or legal advice. If you need legal help, please consult an attorney.

Self-Help Centers–Volunteer attorneys may provide limited legal assistance to self-represented litigants with legal advice on civil matters related to landlord tenant cases. 

Mediation

You can settle your disagreement without going to court and without using lawyers through mediation.