Hawaii Wrongful Security Deposit Withholding Remedies

HRS § 521-44 allows security-deposit disputes to be brought in small claims court. If the court finds wrongful and wilful retention, it may award up to three times the amount wrongfully and wilfully retained plus costs; ordinary wrongful retention has a different statutory remedy.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited

Wrongful + wilful retentionUp to 3× retained amount

Plus cost of suit, subject to court findings.

Action deadline1 year

After termination of the rental agreement.

Build the evidence file

Deposit amount.
14-day timeline.
Written notice and cost evidence.
Proof of mailing.
Condition evidence.
Exact amount still in dispute.

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.

Related Hawaii guides

Security Deposit →1-Month Limit →Pet Deposit →14-Day Rule →