If your Hawaii landlord has not returned your security deposit, start with the deadline and the paperwork. Hawaii uses a 14-day rule, and the written reasons matter.
First, identify the deadline
The landlord should send the written reasons and any remaining balance within 14 days after the rental agreement ends.
Watch this step: save proof of move-out date, surrender, key return, and the unit’s condition at move-in and move-out. Those records help if the landlord later claims the deadline was met or says the deductions were allowed.
What the landlord should send
If money is kept, the landlord should give written reasons and itemize cleaning or repair costs. Receipts are generally expected, and estimates may be used if the work cannot be completed within 14 days.
The deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent, and a separate pet-deposit rule may apply if the rental agreement allows it.
What to do next
Write a calm follow-up that states the move-out date, surrender date, key return, current mailing address, deposit amount, and what is missing.
If the landlord still does not resolve it, the next letter should become more direct and cite HRS section 521-44.
Get the Hawaii Recovery System
Helpful Hawaii pages
- Hawaii security deposit deadline
- Hawaii demand-letter guide
- What Hawaii landlords can deduct
- Hawaii evidence checklist
Important: This page is general educational information, not legal advice.