Who Handles Internet Bills in Hawaii Rentals?

If you're renting an apartment in Hawaii, you may wonder who is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and paying for internet service. This important utility can affect your daily work, study, and communication needs. Understanding your rights and obligations regarding internet services in Hawaii rentals is crucial for a smooth rental experience. This guide uses current Hawaii law to help you know what to expect from landlords and what steps you can take if issues arise.

Who Is Responsible for Internet Service in Hawaii Rentals?

Hawaii law does not require landlords to provide internet service in rental units. Instead, whether internet access is included depends on what your lease agreement says. Common scenarios include:

• Internet is included in rent: Your landlord handles the service and billing. The internet cost may be factored into your monthly rent.
• Internet is a separate utility: You (the renter) are responsible for setting up service, choosing your provider, and paying the bill individually.
• Some buildings offer internet as an optional amenity: Check your lease for how this works and what extra charges may apply.

Always review your rental agreement for specific language about "utilities" or "services provided." In Hawaii, utilities such as water and electric may be referenced separately from optional services like cable or internet.

What Hawaii Law Says About Utility and Service Responsibilities

• Under the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, utilities like water, gas, and electricity are addressed directly. However, services like internet or cable are only governed if mentioned in your lease.
• If your landlord advertises internet service or includes it in your rental agreement, they must ensure it is accessible, functional, and serviced as agreed.
• If a promised utility or service is not working, renters can use the complaint process outlined below.

If Internet Service Is Disrupted or Not Provided as Promised

If your landlord has agreed in writing to provide internet, and you lose access or the quality drops significantly, you have the right to request prompt restoration of service. Practical steps include:

• Notify your landlord or property manager in writing about the problem.
• Keep copies of your request and any responses.
• If not resolved, you may follow up with a formal complaint (see forms and process below).

If your landlord has not agreed to provide or pay for internet, you must arrange and pay for the service yourself.

Relevant Official Forms for Hawaii Renters

• Complaint/Request for Assistance Form – Landlord-Tenant Hotline
  When to use: If your landlord isn’t upholding the lease (for example, failing to provide agreed internet service), fill out the Landlord-Tenant Complaint/Request for Assistance Form from the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).
  Example: You signed a lease that says "internet included," but the service has been down for two weeks. You’ve contacted the landlord with no results. You may submit this form online or by mail.
  

Tip: Always document your internet service complaints and keep a copy of your lease agreement for reference.

Your Rights and What to Look For in Your Lease

Before signing any Hawaii rental agreement, check for:

• Clear mention of internet (Wi-Fi, broadband, etc.) in the “Utilities and Services” section
• Who is responsible for setting up the account and paying monthly bills
• Any listed charges or deposits related to internet or cable
• Service quality expectations, if any (minimum download speeds, included equipment, etc.)

In Hawaii, the official body that handles residential tenancy disputes is the State Landlord-Tenant Information Center within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). They offer help with disputes or questions about landlord responsibilities and tenant rights.

FAQ: Hawaii Apartment Internet and Utility Responsibilities

1. Is my landlord required to provide internet in Hawaii?
   No, unless it is specified in your lease, landlords are not legally required to provide internet service in Hawaii.
2. Can my landlord restrict which internet provider I use?
   Usually, you can choose any provider servicing your building, unless the property's wiring supports only one provider or your lease limits choices. Always check the lease language.
3. What if my lease says “internet included” but I have no access?
   Contact your landlord in writing. If unresolved, use the Complaint/Request for Assistance Form provided by the Hawaii DCCA (linked above).
4. Can my landlord enter my unit to fix internet issues?
   Landlords may only enter your home for repairs with proper notice, as described in the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code.
5. Where do I report internet-related disputes with my landlord?
   Submit a complaint to the State Landlord-Tenant Information Center using the official Request for Assistance Form (link above).

Key Takeaways for Hawaii Renters

• Landlords must provide internet only if agreed to in writing.
• Check your lease for service and billing details.
• Use Hawaii DCCA forms and resources for unresolved disputes.

Reviewing your rental agreement and knowing how to file a complaint will ensure you get the service you expect or get help if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Hawaii State Landlord-Tenant Information Center — Official help with landlord-tenant concerns
• Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code Summary — Clear guidance on renters’ rights
• Landlord-Tenant Forms and Complaint Procedures
• Phone: Call the Landlord-Tenant Information Center: (808) 586-2634

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1. Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Chapter 521)
2. Landlord-Tenant Complaint/Request for Assistance Form (Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs)
3. Hawaii State Landlord-Tenant Information Center (DCCA)

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