Can every renter in Hawaii seal their eviction record?

No, only certain cases—such as those dismissed or ruled in your favor—may be eligible for sealing.

What does it cost to file a motion to seal my record?

The court may charge a small fee, but you can request a fee waiver if you have limited income.

If I lost my eviction case, can I still apply to seal my record?

Generally no, unless exceptional reasons such as identity theft or a clerical error exist.

Where can I get the right forms to seal my record?

Visit your District Court or their self-help website for current forms or sample motions.

How long does it take for an eviction record to be sealed?

It typically takes a few weeks to a couple months once your motion is filed and reviewed by the court.

Sealing an Eviction Record in Hawaii: Step-by-Step Guide

Evictions & Lease Violations Hawaii published: June 21, 2025

If you are a renter in Hawaii, facing an eviction record can make it much harder to secure future housing. Fortunately, Hawaii law does offer limited options for sealing (hiding) eviction records in certain cases. Understanding your rights and the process is important for protecting your rental history and your future opportunities as a tenant. This article explains who may qualify, which forms are used, and what steps to take to seal an eviction record in Hawaii under current law.

What Is Sealing an Eviction Record?

Sealing an eviction record means that information about the eviction is hidden from public court databases, making it harder for future landlords or background check companies to see it. However, not all eviction cases are eligible for sealing in Hawaii. Only certain situations qualify, based on current court rules and state law.

When Can You Seal an Eviction Record in Hawaii?

According to Hawaii law, you may be able to seal an eviction record if your case was dismissed, you were found not at fault, or if the information is inaccurate or misleading. The most common qualifying situations include:

You won your eviction case, or the landlord dismissed it voluntarily
The court judgment was in your favor
The eviction was filed in error or contains inaccurate information

If you lost your case and a judgment was entered against you, sealing is generally not available unless there are exceptional circumstances—such as identity theft or clerical mistake.

Which Court Handles Eviction Record Sealing in Hawaii?

Eviction cases (called "summary possession" actions) are handled by the Hawaii State Judiciary District Courts. To seal a record, you must petition the same District Court that decided your eviction case.

Official Forms for Sealing an Eviction Record

Motion to Seal Court Records (Form 6 or custom motion): Hawaii does not have a statewide, numbered standard form for sealing eviction records. Most renters must file a written Motion to Seal Court Records in their own words or following local sample templates from the District Court.
Example: If your eviction case (summary possession action) was dismissed, you might file a motion asking the judge to seal all related court records so future landlords cannot view them. In your motion, explain your situation and the reason for sealing.
See the Hawaii courts’ Landlord-Tenant Self-Help page for sample language and additional guidance.

Some circuits may provide fillable forms or guide packets. Check your local District Court self-help pages or visit the courthouse clerk's office for up-to-date resources.

Steps to Request the Sealing of an Eviction Record

Filing a motion to seal your eviction record involves several key steps. Here's what most renters can expect:

Request and Complete the Motion: Write a Motion to Seal Court Records. Carefully state your eviction case number, the reasons for requesting sealing, and your supporting facts.
Gather Supporting Documents: Attach proof such as the court's dismissal order, evidence of identity theft, or other relevant paperwork to strengthen your motion.
File Your Motion: File your motion with the District Court that handled your eviction. You may need to pay a small filing fee unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
Serve Notice: You may be required to provide (or “serve”) a copy of your motion to other involved parties—usually the landlord or property manager.
Attend the Hearing: The court might set a hearing date. Attend the hearing and explain your reasons to the judge. If the court agrees, they will issue an order sealing your eviction record.

If you need legal help drafting your motion or attending a hearing, contact a Hawaii legal aid organization. Many offer free or low-cost services for renters.

Key Legal References

Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS §521) governs most rental rights and eviction rules.
Hawaii District Court Rules – Rule 9: Sealing and Protective Orders details the court’s procedure for record sealing.

Always read official court instructions or check with a court clerk for the latest requirements.

What Happens After Your Record Is Sealed?

Once the court grants your motion, your eviction record becomes hidden from the public and background searches. Landlords and screening companies should not be able to view cases that a court has sealed. However, certain government agencies and law enforcement may still access sealed records if needed.

For those not qualified to seal a record, you can always request the court to append an explanation or clarification to your file, but this is not as protective as sealing.

FAQ: Sealing Eviction Records in Hawaii

Can every renter in Hawaii seal their eviction record?
No, only certain cases—such as those dismissed or ruled in your favor—may be eligible.
What does it cost to file a motion to seal my record?
The court may charge a small filing fee, but you can ask the clerk for a fee waiver if you have low income or financial hardship.
If I lost my eviction case, can I still apply to seal my record?
Usually not, unless exceptional reasons such as identity theft or error exist. Consult the court or a legal aid attorney for your specific circumstances.
Where can I get the right forms to seal my record?
Visit your local District Court, check their district court self-help website, or ask the courthouse clerk for guidance and sample motions.
How long does it take for an eviction record to be sealed?
Processing times can vary, but courts typically review and decide motions within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Hawaii renters can petition the District Court to seal eviction records in certain limited situations.
There is no standard statewide form; you must write and file a Motion to Seal Court Records with details and evidence.
Court orders sealing the record ensure it is no longer accessible to the public or potential landlords, improving your future rental chances.

If you are unsure whether your case qualifies, consult legal aid or your local District Court for support before filing a motion.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Hawaii Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center: General guidance and forms for renters.
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii: Free or low-cost legal help, especially for low-income tenants.
District Court Self-Help Centers: Local support, forms, and instructions for renters.
Hawaii State Judiciary: Main court system handling all residential eviction cases and sealing motions.