Your complete guide to renter protections in Honolulu, HI. Learn about local ordinances, rent control status, security deposit rules, and how city law works alongside Hawaii state protections.
No
Rent Control
14
Days to Return Deposit
1 month's rent
Max Deposit
3
Local Protections
Current rent regulation status
No Local Rent Control
Honolulu does not have local rent control. Hawaii state law governs rent increase practices.
Without local rent control, landlords in Honolulu may raise rent with proper written notice as required by Hawaii law. There is no cap on the amount of increase, but it must not be retaliatory or discriminatory.
Honolulu-specific laws and ordinances
Honolulu Residential Landlord-Tenant Code supplemental protections
Hawaii requires 14-day security deposit return
State prohibits landlord retaliation for habitability complaints
Local ordinances work alongside Hawaii state law. Where local protections are stronger, the local rule typically applies. View full Hawaii state protections.
Laws that apply to all Hawaii renters
Max Security Deposit
1 month's rent
Deposit Return Deadline
14 days
Entry Notice Required
2 days
Governing Statute
Hawaii Revised Statutes
Common questions about renting in Honolulu
No, Honolulu does not currently have local rent control. Hawaii state law governs rent increase rules. Landlords must typically provide proper written notice before raising rent.
In Honolulu, the Hawaii state limit of 1 month's rent applies. Landlords must return deposits within 14 days after you move out.
Honolulu tenants benefit from several protections: Honolulu Residential Landlord-Tenant Code supplemental protections; Hawaii requires 14-day security deposit return; State prohibits landlord retaliation for habitability complaints. These are in addition to Hawaii state law.
You can contact the Honolulu local housing authority or code enforcement department to file complaints about habitability issues, discrimination, or landlord violations. Visit your local housing authority's website for details. You can also file with the Hawaii attorney general's office for state-level violations.
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