Hawaii Rent Caps and City-Level Ordinances Explained

For renters in Hawaii, it’s important to understand how local regulations and state law govern rent increases. While some U.S. states and major cities have rent control or rent stabilization laws, Hawaii’s approach relies primarily on state statutes, with a few local ordinances during emergencies. Staying up to date can help you make informed choices, especially if you’re facing a rent increase or unsure about your legal protections.

Are There Rent Caps or Rent Control in Hawaii?

Currently, Hawaii does not have permanent statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws limiting how much landlords can raise rent. There is no law that restricts the amount or frequency of rent increases in most situations. However, during government-declared emergencies, temporary limits on rent hikes may apply.

• Outside of emergency periods, rent increases must follow the terms outlined in your lease and the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
• Landlords must always provide proper written notice before increasing rent (see the official forms section below).

Local Ordinances in Hawaii Cities

Unlike some mainland cities like San Francisco or New York City, no city in Hawaii (including Honolulu, Hilo, and Maui) has enacted permanent rent control ordinances affecting private apartments. Local councils may, however, set temporary rent caps during emergencies.

• Honolulu, Maui, Hilo, and Kauai: As of this year, these city governments have not passed ongoing rent control laws for private rentals.
• Emergency Periods: Local authorities and the Governor can issue emergency proclamations that include temporary rent caps (for example, after natural disasters).

Check your local city or county government website for updates if a disaster or emergency has been declared in your area.

What the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code Says

The central piece of legislation for renters’ rights in Hawaii is the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code. This law covers essential protections, including notice requirements for rent increases:

• For month-to-month rental agreements, landlords must provide at least 45 days’ advanced written notice before raising the rent.
• For week-to-week tenancies, at least 15 days’ notice is required.
• For leases with a set term, rent may only be increased if allowed in your rental agreement.

Even though there are no state-imposed caps, these notice rules give renters time to respond or plan for changes.

Official Forms for Renters Dealing with Rent Increases

• Notice of Rent Increase (No official form number)
  When used: Landlords must provide this written notice if they intend to raise your rent on a month-to-month or week-to-week agreement. As a renter, keep this notice for your records.
  Example: If your landlord wants to increase rent, you must receive a written letter or email (with explicit language and proper notice period).
  See State of Hawaii Sample Notice Guidance
• DCCA Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  When used: File this form if you believe your landlord is violating the Landlord-Tenant Code—such as improper notice or an unlawful rent increase.
  Example: Submit this form to the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA) if you do not receive proper notice of rent increase.
  Access the Official Complaint Form

Who Handles Tenant Disputes in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s official body for landlord-tenant disputes is the State of Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Office of Consumer Protection. For formal disputes, the court system—specifically, Hawaii District Court—may handle cases relating to unlawful rent practices under the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.^[1]

Steps If You Receive a Rent Increase

• Check your rental agreement for allowed increases.
• Verify the notice period and format.
• Contact your landlord for clarification if anything seems incorrect.
• Consider filing a complaint with the DCCA if you believe state rules have been violated.

FAQ: Hawaii Rent Caps and Local Ordinances

1. Is there statewide rent control in Hawaii?
   No, Hawaii does not have statewide rent control. Rent increases are limited only by notice requirements and lease terms.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent at any time?
   Only with proper written notice: at least 45 days for month-to-month and 15 days for week-to-week agreements.
3. Are there any local Hawaii rent caps?
   Not on a permanent basis. Some cities may set temporary caps during declared emergencies, but these are rare and time-limited.
4. What can I do if I believe a rent increase notice is not legal?
   You can file a complaint with the DCCA using their official form and reference the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
5. Where do I go for help with landlord-tenant disputes?
   Start with the DCCA's Office of Consumer Protection, or seek further assistance from Hawaii District Court if needed.

Key Takeaways for Hawaii Renters

• There is no statewide rent cap or ongoing city-level rent control in Hawaii at this time.
• Proper notice is always required for rent increases—know your rights and timelines.
• Use official resources and forms (such as the DCCA Complaint Form) if you suspect a violation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• State of Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Office of Consumer Protection – Main agency for landlord-tenant disputes and complaint forms.
• Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code Guidance – State laws and helpful FAQs.
• Hawaii District Court – Landlord/Tenant Information – Court guidance and self-help resources.

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1. Full Text of the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Ch. 521)
2. Hawaii State Landlord-Tenant Handbook and Legal Updates
3. Official DCCA Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
4. Hawaii Judiciary Landlord/Tenant Resource Center

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