Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Kailua-Kona

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Carlsmith Ball LLP

Carlsmith Ball LLP

Kailua-Kona, United States

Founded in 1857
46 people in their team
At Carlsmith Ball, our history is driven by change. From the founding of our first office in Hilo in 1857, to welcoming the state’s first woman...
English

About Landlord & Tenant Law in Kailua-Kona, United States

In Kailua-Kona, as well as across the state of Hawaii, landlord and tenant laws are designed to protect the rights of both parties involved in a rental agreement. These laws cover a wide range of aspects, including lease terms, rent amount and payment, security deposits, right to quiet enjoyment, repairs, maintenance, and eviction policy. It is extremely important for both landlords and tenants to be familiar with these laws in order to ensure a healthy and legal agreement.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require the services of a lawyer for Landlord & Tenant issues. You might need a lawyer if are a tenant facing an eviction notice, if you are a landlord with a tenant who has breached their lease agreement, or if you have suffered from improper living conditions. Lawyers can also come in handy when negotiating lease terms, handling legal disputes over rent or security deposits, or dealing with discrimination claims.

Local Laws Overview

In Kailua-Kona, local laws provide clear guidelines for landlord and tenant agreements. For instance, the landlords are legally mandated to keep the rental property safe and habitable. On the other hand, tenants are expected to maintain the rental property and pay rental fees as agreed in the contract. Furthermore, there are specific rules related to security deposit refunds, notice periods for lease termination, and procedures for handling eviction cases. Also, discrimination against tenants on the basis of race, religion, gender, age, or disability is strictly prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice does a landlord need to provide to increase the rent?

In Hawaii, unless a lease agreement states otherwise, a landlord needs to give a tenant at least 45 days’ written notice to increase rent for a month-to-month rental agreement.

2. What can I do if my landlord refuses to return my security deposit?

If your landlord refuses to return your security deposit without an acceptable reason, you can potentially sue them in small claims court for the amount owed.

3. Can a landlord enter my property without notice?

A landlord is generally required to provide at least two days' notice before entering a rental property for reasons like inspections or repairs, unless it's an emergency situation.

4. What are my rights as a tenant if my rental property is not kept in a habitable condition?

If the rental property isn’t maintained in a habitable condition, as required by law, you can withhold rent, make essential repairs and deduct the cost from your rent, or move out and terminate your lease agreement, depending on the severity of the problem.

5. Can a landlord evict me without a reason?

Under Hawaiian rental laws, for month-to-month tenancies, a landlord can generally give a tenant a 45-day notice to vacate without giving a reason. But for fixed-term leases, a landlord usually can't evict the tenant before the lease is up unless the tenant violates the lease contract.

Additional Resources

For additional legal advice, you can try reaching out to organisations like The Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, Hawaii State Judiciary’s Self-Help Centers, or the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. They can provide further assistance and guidance on landlord and tenant issues.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in Landlord & Tenant matters, you should consider contacting a qualified real estate lawyer in Kailua-Kona. They can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights and responsibilities under local, state, and federal law. Before hiring a lawyer, be sure to thoroughly research their experience, good standing with the bar, and their familiarity with Kailua-Kona's landlord and tenant laws.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.