Transitional Housing Tenant Rights in Hawaii: What You Need to Know

Special Housing Types & Situations Hawaii published June 21, 2025 Flag of Hawaii

Understanding your rights as a tenant in transitional housing in Hawaii is essential for safe, stable, and fair renting experiences. Transitional housing offers temporary shelter to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, recovery, or other significant life changes. Knowing your legal protections and responsibilities ensures you can advocate for your needs and access support when issues arise.

What is Transitional Housing?

Transitional housing in Hawaii refers to temporary living arrangements intended to help people move from homelessness or crisis situations to stable, long-term housing. Typically, these programs are operated by non-profit organizations or government agencies and offer additional support services like counseling or job assistance.

Are Transitional Housing Residents Protected by Hawaii Landlord-Tenant Law?

Tenant rights for transitional housing residents in Hawaii can be complex, as the protections depend on the housing arrangement and its duration:

  • Traditional rental housing is always covered by Hawaii's Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
  • Transitional housing operated by charities, religious groups, or government programs may not always fall fully under these laws, especially if stays are under a set time frame or part of a program agreement rather than a typical rental lease.

However, basic tenant rights, including protections from discrimination and reasonable notice before eviction, still generally apply. For legal clarity, you can review your program agreement, ask the transitional housing provider, or consult the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Landlord-Tenant Information.

Key Tenant Rights in Hawaii's Transitional Housing

Transitional housing residents have important, though sometimes limited, rights depending on the nature of their agreement. Here are core protections to expect:

  • Fair treatment and anti-discrimination: Protected under state and federal law, regardless of housing type.
  • Safe and sanitary conditions: Your living environment must meet local health and safety codes.
  • Notice before eviction or termination: Even in transitional programs, residents are usually entitled to reasonable notice before being required to leave unless there are urgent health or safety reasons.
  • Right to request repairs for health and safety issues.
  • Reasonable privacy in your room or living space as detailed in your housing agreement.
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Eviction and Leaving Transitional Housing

Transitional housing programs often have specific rules about how and when residents can be asked to leave. These may be outlined in your intake paperwork or a participant agreement. While the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code usually applies to standard rentals, many transitional situations are exceptions under HRS § 514B-8 Exemptions for certain nonprofit or government-run housing1.

Still, most residents must receive advance notice and an opportunity to discuss their situation with staff unless an immediate health or safety threat exists.

Common Problems and How to Address Them

  • Early or sudden eviction: If you feel you were given insufficient notice, ask the program for a written explanation and reference your program or resident agreement.
  • Unsafe conditions or needed repairs: Notify staff in writing, keep copies, and follow up until the issue is addressed.
  • Unfair treatment or discrimination: File a complaint with Hawaii Civil Rights Commission for issues related to race, gender, disability, or other protected groups.
Hawaii law provides special protections against retaliation. If you report unsafe housing or exercise your rights, the provider cannot evict you simply as a response.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

  • Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (DCCA-OCP-LT)
    Used when you want to file a complaint regarding unfair eviction, repairs not made, or other violations involving transitional and rental housing.
    • When to use: If you believe your rights as a resident are being violated.
    • How to use: Complete the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form and submit it to the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection. For transitional housing, explain the type of housing and situation clearly.
    • Access the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  • Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form
    For residents who need modifications due to disability or other reasons.
    • When to use: If you require changes or adjustments to your living environment.
    • How to use: Submit a written request along with any forms your housing program requires. Some providers may have their own forms—ask your case manager.
    • General guidance can be found via the Hawaii Department of Health.

Who Handles Transitional Housing Disputes in Hawaii?

For formal disputes or unresolved complaints, Hawaii's official tribunal for housing matters is the Office of Consumer Protection Landlord-Tenant Branch. They can provide information, mediation, and referrals. For fair housing issues or discrimination, the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission is the enforcement agency.

Relevant Legislation

FAQ: Renter Questions About Transitional Housing in Hawaii

  1. Can I be evicted from transitional housing without notice?
    Most residents are entitled to reasonable notice before eviction, except in urgent safety threats. Check your agreement for details.
  2. Does the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code apply to transitional housing?
    The Code generally applies to typical rentals. Certain transitional housing, especially short-term or nonprofit-operated, may be exempt. Ask your program for clarification and check Hawaii law.
  3. What should I do if my transitional housing provider won't make repairs?
    Notify staff in writing. If unresolved, submit the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form to the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection.
  4. Where can I find help if I feel discriminated against?
    Contact the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission with details of your complaint.
  5. Can I request an accommodation for my disability in transitional housing?
    Yes. Submit a written request to your housing provider. If denied, seek help from the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission.

Key Takeaways

  • Transitional housing residents in Hawaii have important rights, though some legal protections differ from those in standard rentals.
  • You are generally entitled to safe conditions, fair treatment, and reasonable notice before being asked to leave.
  • For most complaints, start with your program and escalate to the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Hawaii Revised Statutes § 514B-8: Exemptions
  2. Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Chapter 521)
  3. Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection Landlord-Tenant Branch
  4. Hawaii Civil Rights Commission
  5. Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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