HI · Security Deposit Law

Security deposit laws in Hawaii

14 days; up to 3x for wrongful withholding.

Return deadline

14 days

Itemization required

Yes

Bad-faith multiplier

What to do if your Hawaii landlord won't return your deposit

  • Confirm the 14-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
  • Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
  • Send a formal demand letter citing Hawaii's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
  • If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — Hawaii allows up to 3x damages for wrongful withholding.
Generate a Hawaii demand letter