Handling Lease Buyout Offers in Hawaii: A Renter’s Guide

Receiving a lease buyout offer from your landlord in Hawaii can be a significant moment, and knowing exactly how to respond helps protect your rights and interests. A lease buyout generally means the landlord wants you to end your lease early, usually in exchange for compensation. Whether you’re happy to move or hoping to stay, it’s essential to understand the legal process, documentation requirements, and support available under Hawaii law. This guide will walk you through what a lease buyout offer means for renters in Hawaii, including what to consider and how to proceed safely.

What Is a Lease Buyout Offer?

A lease buyout occurs when your landlord offers you money or other incentives to voluntarily end your rental agreement before its original end date. Landlords may make buyout offers for many reasons—such as planning renovations, selling, or moving in themselves. In most situations, accepting a buyout is entirely voluntary, and you are not required to agree.

Your Rights as a Renter in Hawaii

Hawaii renters are protected by the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code. Some important rights include:

• Landlords cannot force you out without following legal eviction procedures.
• You must receive proper written notice for any proposed changes or terminations.
• You are not obligated to accept a buyout—your agreement must be voluntary and in writing.

For most residential tenancies, disputes and complaints are handled by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Landlord-Tenant Information Center, which provides guidance, mediation, and official forms.

How to Respond to a Lease Buyout Offer

If you receive a buyout offer, take time to review all terms and consider your personal situation. Here’s what to do:

• Request all details in writing. Make sure the offer clearly lists the amount, move-out date, and any conditions.
• Check what you’ll need to do to end the lease, such as removing belongings and leaving the unit clean.
• Understand how the buyout may affect your security deposit and return timelines.
• Ask any questions and get clarifications before agreeing to anything.
• Do not sign or accept payments until you are comfortable with the terms.

Official Forms and Documentation

• Notice to Vacate Form
  Hawaii does not have a specific state-issued form for lease buyouts. However, if you agree to the buyout, it is best practice to use a written Notice to Vacate, signed by both tenant and landlord. The notice should include:
  • Date of agreement
  • Move-out date
  • Buyout payment details
  • Arrangements regarding the security deposit

  You can find guidance on creating notices and what information to include on the DCCA Landlord-Tenant Information Center website.

• Security Deposit Statement
  After moving out, your landlord must send you an itemized statement of deductions (if any) from your security deposit, typically within 14 days. Forms and templates are discussed on the official DCCA Security Deposit Information page.

Key Considerations Before Accepting a Lease Buyout

Before moving forward, make sure to weigh your options carefully. Consider:

• Whether finding comparable housing will be easy or affordable
• If the buyout amount will cover your move and potential new deposits
• Whether your rental history will be affected (such as early termination fees or eviction records – a buyout should not be an eviction)
• Your financial and family situation for moving on the landlord’s timeline

Action Steps for Hawaii Renters Offered a Lease Buyout

Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of what to do if you receive a lease buyout offer:

• Read any buyout proposal thoroughly and ask for all terms in writing.
• Review the DCCA Landlord-Tenant Information Center resources for your rights.
• Contact DCCA or a tenant agency for a free or low-cost consultation if you have questions.
• If you agree, complete a written Notice to Vacate and confirm buyout terms (move-out date, payment amount, deposit handling).
• Retain copies of all communications and forms for your records.
• On move-out, document the apartment’s condition and attend any walk-through if offered.
• Await your security deposit itemization within 14 days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lease Buyouts in Hawaii

1. Do I have to accept a lease buyout in Hawaii?
   No. Accepting a buyout is entirely voluntary. Your landlord cannot force you to move out outside of the official legal eviction process. You are protected by the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
2. Should I get a buyout agreement in writing?
   Yes, always. Documented terms prevent misunderstandings and are essential for your records and in case of future disputes.
3. Can a lease buyout affect my security deposit?
   The landlord may deduct damages, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs per Hawaii law, but your deposit should not be forfeited just because of a buyout. The landlord must provide an itemized deduction statement.
4. What if the landlord pressures or threatens me?
   If you feel pressured, or if a landlord tries to evict you without following proper procedure, contact the Hawaii DCCA Landlord-Tenant Center for advice and support.
5. Where can I get help if I have questions about a lease buyout?
   The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and local legal aid services can help clarify your rights and connect you with resources.

Key Takeaways for Hawaii Renters

• Lease buyouts must be voluntary and put in writing.
• Always check your rights under the current Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
• Document every agreement and keep copies of all forms and communications.

Understanding your rights in a buyout situation gives you the confidence to protect your home and finances in Hawaii’s rental market.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Hawaii DCCA Landlord-Tenant Information Center – Official guidance and complaint process
• DCCA Landlord-Tenant Hotline: (808) 586-2634 – Call for advice and support
• Legal Aid Society of Hawaii – Free or low-cost legal advice for renters
• DCCA Security Deposit Rules – Information on deposit returns and forms

---

1. Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Chapter 521)
2. Hawaii DCCA Landlord-Tenant Information Center
3. Hawaii DCCA Security Deposit Rules

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations