How to Recognize and Avoid Housing Scams in Hawaii

Affordable housing is in high demand across Hawaii, and unfortunately, scammers often try to take advantage of individuals searching for rental assistance or lower-cost accommodations. Understanding the common tactics of scammers can help you stay protected and secure your rights as a renter in Hawaii.

Common Affordable Housing Scams in Hawaii

Scammers frequently target those seeking affordable rentals or rental assistance programs. These are the most reported schemes:

• Fake Rental Listings: Scammers post apartments or homes they do not own, often using photos from real ads. They may demand deposits before any property tour or paperwork.
• Application Fee Scams: Illegitimate landlords request high upfront fees, claiming it’s to "hold" a rental or expedite an application.
• Government Grant Scams: False social media or email claims that you’ve qualified for a government rental grant, but payment is needed to claim it.
• Phony Section 8 Lists: Charging for access to fake or outdated waiting lists for HUD or Section 8 housing.

Scammers often pressure you to act quickly, pay by wire transfer, or communicate only by email or messaging apps instead of in person or by phone.

Red Flags and How to Protect Yourself

If you spot any of the signs below, it could indicate a fraudulent rental offer or scam:

• The supposed landlord cannot meet you in person.
• You’re asked for payment before seeing the property or signing a lease.
• The listing price is far below market rates for the area.
• Requests for payment in cash, wire, gift cards, or peer-to-peer apps.
• Pressure to act immediately or risk losing the unit.
• No proper rental application or official lease agreement.

Key Hawaii Housing Forms and Where to Find Them

If you’re pursuing rental assistance or Section 8 housing in Hawaii, always use official application forms and government websites:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Application: Provided by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA).
  • When and How: Use this form during HPHA's open application periods to apply for the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program. Only apply through the official HPHA website.
• Tenant-Landlord Complaint Form (#530): Filed with the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection - Landlord-Tenant Branch if you believe a landlord is unlawfully withholding funds or engaging in unfair rental practices.
  • When and How: Use if your deposit was wrongfully withheld or your landlord is violating local rental laws. Download from the official Landlord-Tenant Complaint form page and submit as directed on the form.

Never pay for government housing application forms — they are always free and available through state or county official websites only.

The Role of Hawaii’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Code

Rental agreements and landlord-tenant relationships in Hawaii are regulated under the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code. This law:

• Sets requirements for written rental agreements
• Regulates security deposits
• Outlines both landlord and tenant responsibilities
• Provides avenues for dispute resolution through the official Landlord-Tenant Branch

If You're a Victim of a Housing Scam

If you believe you've been targeted or scammed:

• Immediately cease any further payments or contact.
• File a police report with your local law enforcement.
• Contact the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection to submit the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form.
• Contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Hawaii for federal assistance on housing fraud.

Taking action quickly increases your chances of recovering funds and can help prevent further harm to others.

FAQ: Protecting Yourself from Rental Scams

1. What should I do if someone asks for money before I see an apartment?
   Never send money or share payment details before you have seen a property in person and have a signed, official lease agreement. This is a common indicator of a scam.
2. Are government housing applications ever sold or require payment?
   No, all official applications are free and only processed through authorized websites like the Hawaii Public Housing Authority.
3. Who do I contact if I believe I've been scammed while searching for affordable housing?
   Report to your local police, file a complaint with the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection, and contact HUD Hawaii.
4. How do I know if a landlord or housing offer is legitimate?
   Look for verifiable contact information, in-person property showings, and only use official forms and agreements regulated by the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
5. Where can I get an official rental assistance application in Hawaii?
   All legitimate applications are available for free at the Hawaii Public Housing Authority and associated county housing offices.

Key Takeaways for Hawaii Renters

• Be suspicious of high-pressure tactics, suspicious payment requests, or listings that seem too good to be true.
• Always use official government websites for applications and forms.
• Contact the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection or local authorities if you suspect a scam.

Stay alert and informed to protect your finances and your housing security.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection – Landlord-Tenant Branch: File landlord-tenant complaints, dispute issues, and access mediation resources.
• Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA): Information on official rental applications, Section 8 waiting lists, and program requirements.
• HUD Hawaii Rental Assistance: Guidance for renters and reporting fraud in federal programs.
• Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (Chapter 521): The primary legislation governing rental rights and obligations in Hawaii.

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1. Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection – Landlord-Tenant Branch
2. Hawaii Public Housing Authority: Housing Programs and Applications
3. Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (Chapter 521)
4. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Renting in Hawaii

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