Hawaii 14-Day Security Deposit Rule

If the landlord proposes to retain part or all of the deposit, Hawaii law requires written notice with the particulars and grounds for retention, including written cost evidence, and requires the remaining balance to be returned not later than 14 days after the rental agreement terminates.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20262 official sources cited

Deadline14 days

After termination of the rental agreement.

Proof of complianceMailing or receipt evidence

The statute describes proof of timely mailing or acknowledgment.

Timeline checklist

Termination date.
Date notice/refund was mailed or delivered.
Postmark or other proof of mailing.
Address supplied to landlord.
Amount returned.

Hawaii’s 14-day rule is documentation-heavy. Check the actual termination date, written notice, cost evidence and proof of mailing. Educational information only.

Official sources

Hawaii State LegislatureHRS § 521-44 — Security deposits ↗

Current Hawaii statute covering deposit limits, pet security, allowable uses, 14-day notice/refund, proof of mailing and small-claims remedies.

Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer AffairsResidential Landlord-Tenant Code — Security Deposits ↗

Official Hawaii consumer guidance summarizing the security-deposit rules and documentation expectations.

Related Hawaii guides

Security Deposit →1-Month Limit →Pet Deposit →Itemization & Evidence →