Getting Repairs Made
HRS 521-64 — twelve business days to start after written notice, three for essential facilities, then repair and deduct
- The landlord complies with building and housing laws materially affecting health and safety.
- Keeps common areas clean and safe, and the premises in a habitable condition.
- Keeps the electrical, plumbing and other facilities and appliances supplied in good working order, subject to reasonable wear and tear.
- Except in a single family residence, provides garbage receptacles and frequent removal, and running water.
- Before move in, makes a written inventory of the condition of the premises, signed by both sides, with a copy to each tenant.
Who handles this in Hawaii: Hawaii Disability Rights Center and Residential Landlord-Tenant Information Center; and legal aid programs, lawyer referral and the state offices, listed in the Hawaii directory.
| After | The landlord starts repairs within |
|---|---|
| AfterWritten notice from the tenant of a defect that does not comply with the landlord's duties or the agreement | The landlord starts repairs withinTwelve business days |
| AfterNotice, oral or written, of a repair to electrical, plumbing or other facilities, including major appliances, needed for sanitary and habitable conditions | The landlord starts repairs withinThree business days |
| AfterWritten notice from the department of health or another agency of a health or safety violation | The landlord starts repairs withinSeven calendar days |
If the landlord does not start in time, the tenant may have the work done competently and, on giving the landlord receipts, deduct the actual cost from the rent, up to $1,000 or one month's rent, whichever is greater.
The first notice lists every condition the tenant knows of; one left off cannot be charged to the landlord for six months. Repairs charged to the landlord in each six month period may not exceed three months' rent, and none may be charged for damage the tenant's own want of care caused.
Sources for this section (2)
- HRS 521-42 — Landlord to supply and maintain fit premises
- HRS 521-64 — Tenant's remedy of repair and deduction for minor defects
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Hawaii attorney.