Hawaii Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 14 calendar days after termination of tenancy and return of keys.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, repair of damages caused by the tenant beyond normal wear and tear. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that results from the normal use of the dwelling unit.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to wrongfully withheld amount plus court costs and attorney fees under Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44(c).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 1 month rent
- Itemization required: Within 14 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 14 days
- Landlord must provide itemized list of damages
What Your Hawaii Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Hawaii's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Hawaii law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that results from the normal use of the dwelling unit...
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Hawaii Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Hawaii?
Under Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 14 calendar days after termination of tenancy and return of keys. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Hawaii landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Hawaii, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, repair of damages caused by the tenant beyond normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Hawaii?
In Hawaii: Deterioration that results from the normal use of the dwelling unit. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Hawaii landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to wrongfully withheld amount plus court costs and attorney fees under Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44(c). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Hawaii?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Hawaii-specific dispute letter citing Haw. Rev. Stat. §521-44 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.