What are the rules regarding repairs and maintenance?
In Hawaii, landlords are required to keep rental units in a safe and livable condition and to make necessary repairs and do maintenance as needed. Tenants are also expected to take reasonable care of the rental unit and to notify the landlord of any needed repairs. Under Hawaii laws, a landlord must keep the rental unit up to code and comply with any relevant health or safety regulations. Once a tenant has informed the landlord or property manager of a needed repair, the landlord must act within a reasonable amount of time. If the repair is considered an emergency, the landlord must fix it within 24 hours. If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs or maintenance, a tenant can give the landlord a written notice, also referred to as a "10-day notice", giving the landlord 10 days to make the repairs. If the repairs are not made after the 10-day period, the tenant can choose to either withhold rent or terminate their lease. It is always best to put any requests for repairs or maintenance in writing, keep copies of all documents, and periodically follow up with the landlord to make sure the needed repairs or maintenance are being carried out. It is also important that tenants are familiar with all of the landlord-tenant laws in Hawaii, and always work to resolve disputes with a landlord in an amicable manner.
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