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Hawaii Tenant Obligations for Maintenance and Rules

The Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, Chapter 521 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Sections 51, 52, and 55 require a tenant to abide by the following maintenance requirements and landlord rules:

Tenant Maintenance

The tenant must keep the dwelling in a clean, fit condition and must obey laws and regulations governing cleanliness, health and safety. Such things include garbage disposal and proper use of appliances and plumbing.
Friends and family members are also bound under this section of the Code.

Section 51

Inform Landlord of Repair Needs

The tenant must inform the landlord of conditions which need repair.

Section 55

Compliance with Rules

The tenant must comply with all rules brought to the tenant’s attention. If the rules are not brought to the tenant’s attention at the time the tenant enters into the rental agreement, and if the rules substantially modify the tenant’s
bargain under the rental agreement, the rules do not apply to the tenant unless the tenant consents to them in writing. For the rules to apply, they must:

  • Promote the tenant’s convenience, safety and general welfare;
  • Preserve the landlord’s property from abuse;
  • Promote the fair distribution of services and facilities available to all tenants in general;
  • Reasonably relate to the purpose of the rules;
  • Apply to all tenants of the property in a fair manner;
  • Be clear enough to be understood.

Tenants must comply with condominium bylaws.

A landlord cannot restrict a tenant from erecting or displaying a legal sign or outdoor advertising device that urges voters to vote for or against any person or issue, providing the tenant complies with building and housing laws.

Section 52

See also Hawaii Landlord Required Written Disclosures.

Return to Hawaii Landlord-Tenant Laws.