Can a Landlord Show Your Rental While You're Packing in Hawaii?

Moving out of your rental in Hawaii can feel overwhelming, especially if your landlord wants to show the apartment to prospective tenants or buyers while you're still packing. Understanding your rights and what your landlord can (and can't) do is key to making your final days in your home less stressful. This guide covers Hawaii's laws on landlord entry, proper notice, and what you can expect if your unit is being shown as you prepare to move.

When Can a Landlord Show Your Rental Unit in Hawaii?

Hawaii law allows landlords to enter your rental unit for certain reasons, including showing the property to prospective tenants or buyers. However, there are important rules they must follow to protect your privacy and minimize disruption.

Notice Requirements for Showings

• Landlords must provide at least two days' (48 hours) advance notice before entering your rental for non-emergency reasons, including showings.^[1]
• The notice must state the date, approximate time, and purpose of entry.
• Entry must occur at a reasonable time, usually during normal business hours unless you agree otherwise.

"Packing up your belongings does not remove your right to privacy or proper notice," as the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code clearly outlines in Section 521-53.

What Landlords Can (and Can't) Do During Move-Out

• They can show the apartment while you are packing, as long as they provide proper notice and enter at a reasonable time.
• They cannot enter repeatedly or at unreasonable hours to disrupt your move.
• They cannot enter without notice unless it's an emergency (like a fire, flood, or urgent repairs).

Refusing Entry or Negotiating Showings

If the proposed showing time creates a hardship (for example, if you work nights or have children at home), you can request to negotiate a different time with your landlord. However, you cannot unreasonably deny access if proper notice is given under the law.

Relevant Forms and Where to Find Them

• Notice of Intent to Enter (No specific official form in Hawaii)
  Landlords typically draft their own notice. It must include: your address, date/time of entry, and reason for entry.
  Example: Your landlord emails you, stating they plan to show your apartment Thursday at 2 PM, with 48 hours’ notice. This satisfies legal requirements if all information is provided. See full requirements under Hawaii’s Landlord-Tenant resources.
• Complaint Submission
  If your landlord is violating entry rules, you can file a formal complaint. Start with the Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO) complaint form.
  Example: If your landlord enters without notice more than once, file a complaint through RICO describing what happened.

The official authority overseeing tenancy concerns in Hawaii is the Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO) under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

Steps to Take If There's a Problem

• Document any notice (keep emails, texts, or written communications).
• Politely communicate with your landlord about scheduling issues.
• If your landlord continues to violate your rights, file a complaint with RICO and seek mediation or legal support as needed.

Most issues can be resolved through respectful, clear communication, but it’s wise to know your legal protections under the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.^[2]

FAQs About Landlord Showings When Moving Out in Hawaii

1. Can my landlord show the apartment while I am still living and packing in it?
   Yes, your landlord can show your rental unit to prospective renters or buyers, provided they give you at least 48 hours’ written notice and enter during reasonable hours.
2. What if I’m uncomfortable with strangers touring my home while I pack?
   You can request to be present or ask your landlord to coordinate showings at times convenient for you. However, you cannot unreasonably block access if proper notice is given.
3. Does the landlord need my permission to enter for showings?
   No, but they must give advance written notice as described by the law unless you waive this right.
4. What should I do if my landlord repeatedly enters without notice?
   Document all entry attempts, communicate your concerns, and if violations continue, file a complaint with the Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO).
5. Are there any official forms I need to fill out when objecting to an improper entry?
   There is no specific tenant objection form in Hawaii. However, you should keep written records and can use RICO’s complaint process if needed.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords must give you at least 48 hours’ notice before showings, even as you pack up.
• You have the right to request reasonable scheduling or to be present during showings.
• If your landlord enters without proper notice, document it and contact RICO for support.

Remember: Knowing your rights under Hawaii law can help you protect your privacy and have a smoother moving experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO) — File complaints about improper entry or unsafe conditions. Tel: (808) 587-3222
• Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection: Landlord-Tenant Information — Download the comprehensive Landlord-Tenant Handbook.
• Legal Aid Society of Hawaii — Free legal help and tenant advice.
• Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code — Full legislation text.

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1. Hawaii Revised Statutes § 521-53: Landlord’s right of entry
2. Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Chapter 521)
3. Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO)
4. Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection – Landlord-Tenant Handbook

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