Hawaii Repair & Habitability Laws
Hawaii landlords must maintain rental units in compliance with housing codes and keep essential services operational.
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Key Rules
- Repair And Deduct
- Yes — up to one month's rent after notice and failure to repair within a reasonable time
- Rent Withholding
- Tenant may terminate agreement for material failure to maintain habitable conditions
- Habitability Standard
- Housing code compliance; working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
- Notice Required
- Written notice to landlord required before invoking repair-and-deduct remedy
Applicable Statutes
Landlord's duties: landlord must comply with all applicable housing codes, maintain structural components, and keep essential services (plumbing, heating, electrical) in good working order.
Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-64
Tenant remedies for failure to maintain: if landlord fails to repair after notice, tenant may repair and deduct the cost from rent (up to one month's rent) or terminate the rental agreement.
Legal Aid Resources
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.