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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................................2
THE HOUSING OFFICE ...........................................................................................3
E-Ads 3.0.......................................................................................... 3
Rental-referral Program .................................................................................. 3
THE HOUSING SERVICE CENTER.......................................................................... 4
ASSESSING YOUR NEEDS...................................................................................... 5
Physical Features ........................................................................................... 5
Location .......................................................................................................... 5
Types of Units ..................................................…........................................... 6
ASSESS YOUR BUDGET.......................................................................................... 7
Utilities ............................................................................................................ 7
THE BOTTOM LINE...................…..............................................................................9
YOUR ABILITY TO PAY .............................................................................................9
TRANSLATING THE ADVERTISEMENTS.......….....................................................10
THE SEARCH ...........................................................................................................10
APPLYING FOR A RENTAL ......................................…...........................................12
The Inventory ...….........................................................................................13
THE LEASE.....................….........................................................................……….14
CHOOSE YOUR ROOMMATE(S) CAREFULLY! .....................................................16
SETTING UP YOUR HOME ........................................................……......................18
TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES ...............................................……...........................19
Cleanliness ......................................................................….........................19
Appliances ..............................................................................................….20
Repairs ..................................................................................……...............20
Rent Payment ......................................................................…....................21
Overnight Guests .............................................……….................................21
Noise................................….........................................................................21
Pets..............................................…….........................................................21
TERMINATING THE LEASE...................................................…...............................22
What is Clean? ................................................................ ...........................22
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Hawai‘i Pacific University and our community. At Hawai‘i Pacific
University, we offer assistance with a variety of housing options to meet all
students’ needs. It is our hope that you will find the available housing options
comfortable, convenient, and conducive to your academic success. HPU can
assist your housing needs with on-campus housing at the windward campus or
off-campus housing. The Housing Office also manages a housing referral service
that can assist you with your off-campus housing needs.
Most HPU students live in apartments, condominiums, and private homes that
they have located on their own (or with the assistance of the University’s Housing
Office), and for which they have personally negotiated a rental contract.
This guide is intended to provide students with basic information about nonUniversity sponsored housing that may assist them in understanding real estate
terms and conditions, as well as the responsibilities of both the landlord and the
tenant. Additionally, this guide addresses the most-often-asked questions about
the local real estate market, and also provides additional details that will assist in
planning for housing requirements in Hawai‘i.
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THE DOWNTOWN HOUSING OFFICE
The Commuter Services office is available on the downtown campus within Sharky's
Cove. While the hours of operation may vary, the office is generally open:
HOUSING OFFICE
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
The director of Residential Life and Commuter Services oversees all aspects of
University Sponsored housing and the coordination of a referral service for off-campus
housing.
Rental-referral Program (E-Ads 3.0)
The downtown Housing Office maintains an Electronic bulletin board called E-Ads 3.0.
Here students can find additional rental opportunities offered by apartment / home
owners, real estate agents, and rental management companies on the island of O‘ahu.
E-Ads 3.0 is comparable to a craigslist for the HPU community; it is accessed only
through your HPU pipeline account.
Hawai‘i Pacific University students looking for roommates also advertise extensively on
E-Ads, as the system allows one to advertise for rooms to share or rooms wanted.
Landlords who inquire within about E-Ads can also post available units for the HPU
community.
For further information regarding the rental-referral program, please call 544-1430. The
rental notices on the referral board are accepted and posted by the Housing Office solely
as a convenience for students seeking accommodations. Hawai‘i Pacific University has
not inspected any of the dwellings on E-Ads and any agreement entered into is solely
between the parties involved. Students interested in safety and crime statistics for
residential areas on O‘ahu should consult with local area residents and/or visit
www.honolulupd.org. All listings on E-Ads 3.0 are posted in a neutral manner and should
not be assumed to have the endorsement of Hawaii Pacific University in any way shape
or form.
THE HOUSING CONFERENCE
On a year round basis students are welcome to visit Commuter Services for help with
finding housing or discussing problems with their leases. We also appreciate hearing
good things about a particular property or landlord so that we may refer other students in
the future. During this meeting students will receive take-home information, for example,
bus information and maps; that will help them adjust to their new surroundings. One of
the most important features of the Commuter Services office is that it serves as a
“networking” site where students with similar housing needs can meet, compare
information and, perhaps, agree to share an apartment or house. For those who are not
able to visit the Commuter Services in person, we also have a social media account on
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Facebook where students can start a dialogue and connect with each other.
ASSESSING YOUR NEEDS
It is very important that you reasonably and accurately assess your NEEDS and
WANTS. Sometimes the difference between personal desires and actual requirements
becomes blurred, thereby making the selection of an apartment more difficult.
Physical Features
In Hawaii you must take a conservative approach when assessing your housing
requirements. Necessities on the main land, such central air, heater systems, or water
purification units are not as important here.
Physical features that you should consider and prioritize are:
• Parking
• Size of rooms
• Carpets
• Window coverings (drapes, curtains, blinds, shades, etc.)
• Laundry facilities
• Kitchen appliances (dishwasher, garbage disposal, stove or hot plate, etc.)
• Tub or shower preference
• Adequate cabinet and/or closet space
• Security (front door locks, deadbolts)
• Number of bathrooms
• Location (close to school? shopping?)
• Amenities (pool, Jacuzzi, tennis, etc.)
• Lighting (inside, outside)
Location
Deciding where to live while attending Hawai‘i Pacific University depends on many
factors – personal and practical. If the majority of your courses are at the downtown
campus, then living near Waikiki or Honolulu would be beneficial.
If most of your classes are at the windward Hawai‘i Loa campus, then the windward side
of O‘ahu would most likely be preferable. For others, proximity to friends, the beach,
recreational areas, libraries, public transportation, etc. may dictate where you will be
looking for housing. Many rental advertisements, including those in the daily newspaper
(The Honolulu Star Advertiser), routinely use specific location names to identify
geographical areas where rental opportunities exist.
Those closest (within two miles) to the downtown campus are: DOWNTOWN (meaning
downtown Honolulu), NU‘UANU, KAKA‘AKO, PUNCHBOWL, IWILEI, KAPI‘OLANI,
LILIHA, and ALA MOANA.
Some popular areas within a five-mile range where many students live are: WAIKIKI,
MO‘ILI‘ILI, MAKIKI, PUNAHOU, McCULLY, MANOA, KAPAHULU, KAIMUKI, and ST.
LOUIS.
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Larger residential areas that are five-15 miles from the downtown campus are: KAILUA,
KANE‘OHE, SALT LAKE, ‘AIEA, HAWAI‘I KAI, KAHALA, PEARL CITY, and
PEARLRIDGE.
(Note: Kailua and Kane‘ohe are two miles from the windward Hawai‘i Loa campus).
While unfamiliar to you now, these names and places will become second nature in a
very short time after you arrive. The areas closest to the University offer the opportunity
to walk or bicycle to classes. Some students choose to purchase a moped or
automobile, which allows you to reside further from campus. Public parking around the
University can also be expensive.
Additionally, students can use TheBus, which operates on a convenient, island-wide
schedule. Unless you are within walking distance of the University, easy access to a bus
stop should be near the top of your priority list. Only $2.50 will take you anywhere on the
island you choose to go, but you must have the EXACT BUS FARE each time you
board, as the bus driver will not administer change. So preparation is ideal. Semester
bus passes, which permit unlimited use, are available at both campuses. As a
convenience for Hawai‘i Pacific students, these passes are sold in the University
Bookstore. However we suggest purchasing one ASAP as we only have these in limited
quantities.
Rooms
There are many private homeowners in Hawai‘i who have extra bedrooms that they are
willing to rent to students. Advantages of this are large residential areas, fully furnished,
kitchen privileges, private entrances and private bathrooms. Some owners include the
student in family activities, but that should not be expected.
In addition to private rooms for rent, some owners will offer rooms to share. Depending
upon the size of the bedroom and how comfortable you feel about sharing it, the cost will
be significantly less than private accommodations.
Prior to signing a rental agreement for a room in someone’s private home, you should
clarify with the landlord what is/is not included in the monthly rent (e.g., electric, water,
phone). Additionally, make sure you ask for a list of rules and ALWAYS get everything in
writing.
Apartments/Condominiums
Have you ever wondered what the difference between an apartment and a condominium
is? Probably not, but for some, the distinction is important. For others, like students who
only need a place to stay, the difference is less crucial – but should it be? Generally, an
apartment building is owned by one individual (or possibly a small group), and those
who live there pay rent directly to a landlord. A condominium is a building in which the
apartments are owned by individuals and lessees pay rent directly to the owners of the
individual apartments. Also, the condominium owners share ownership of the entire
building and common facilities (laundry, pool, etc.) and, therefore, pay a monthly
maintenance fee for their upkeep. This distinction should be important to a student
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looking for housing because apartments will probably cost less to rent since they do not
have many of the amenities of a condominium. The maintenance fee that condominium
owners pay to upkeep a pool, a recreation/exercise room, a tennis court, or additional
security will, most likely, be included in the monthly rent you pay. Most condominiums
are fully furnished. Leases for condominiums may be as long as one year, whereas
apartments may only be six months or less.
Homes:
Homeowners who are not living in their Hawai‘i house will sometimes rent it to earn
money to pay the mortgage. While most would prefer to see a family rent the house,
some will rent to groups of students. A one-year lease is common.
These house rentals may also apply to townhouses which are attached, similarly
constructed, privately-owned dwellings, somewhat smaller in living area than a full-size
house. They are located in large developments and normally contain two, three, or four
bedrooms. Many have amenities similar to condominiums, but tenants should expect to
pay additional rent for their use.
ASSESS YOUR BUDGET
Experience has shown that the priorities for students for off-campus housing tend to be:
1. Cost
2. Proximity to school
3. Amenities included in the rent
Some students prefer many roommates in order to reduce the monthly rent each
occupant must pay, while others prefer to preserve their space and personal privacy.
In assessing what you can afford for monthly rent, be sure to consider food, furnishings
(if required), and utilities.
Security Deposit
FIRST MONTH’S RENT: Additionally, a security deposit, no larger than one month’s
rent, will be required prior to occupancy. The security deposit will be held by the landlord
for the duration of the lease. It will be returned, whole or in part, depending upon the
condition of the apartment when it is vacated. (THE TENANTS ARE REQUIRED TO
LEAVE THE APARTMENT IN JUST AS GOOD A CONDITION AS WHEN
OCCUPANCY BEGAN, EXCEPT FOR NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR). Costs to repair
damages caused by the tenants or for required additional cleaning will be deducted from
the security deposit. Tenants are entitled to a refund of the balance of their security
deposit within 14 days after the lease is terminated.
Utility Deposit
If your rent does NOT include utilities, it is routine for the utility companies (telephone,
water, gas, and electricity) to require a deposit before service is provided. See below
for further details. 3. APPLICATION FEE: Some landlords require an application fee to
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process lease papers. It is usually a minimal amount ($15 - $30).
Electricity
To a great extent, YOU are in control of how large your monthly electricity bill will be. On
the other hand, the price of oil – something you cannot directly affect – will also have an
impact on your bill.
Basically, however, two roommates occupying a studio or one-bedroom apartment can
expect an average bill of $60 a month for electricity. In most cases, a little common
sense can help you pay as little as possible. Constant use of hair dryers, toasters, or
ovens, or operating an air conditioner inefficiently will increase your bill. Brochures from
the Hawaiian Electric Company, containing tips on conserving electricity are available.
If you move into an apartment where the electrical service has been disconnected, call
The Hawaiian Electric Company (808) 548-7311 to begin service.
A security deposit will be held for one year, then returned with interest if your bills have
been paid promptly. If the service is terminated prior to that time, the deposit can be
applied to the final electric bill.
Students from the U.S. mainland who have been responsible for paying electric bills at
previous residences should bring or request to have sent a letter of good credit from
their former electric company. With that as proof of your credit rating, the Hawaiian
Electric Company may waive their security deposit requirement.
Gas:
If your studio or one-bedroom apartment has a gas stove and/or water heater then you
will have a gas bill to pay. To begin service, call The Gas Company (808) 535-5933.
Depending on your credit history, a deposit may be required. If required, the deposit is
based on the total for that unit two months prior to you taking occupancy. The deposit is
held for one year, and returned with interest. If the occupants terminate service before
12 months, the deposit can be applied to the final gas bill, and the balance refunded to
the occupants.
Water and Sewage:
These charges are almost always included in your rent. There are NO installation
charges, deposits, or connecting fees, EXCEPT a $10 reconnection charge if your water
service was terminated due to continued late payments. The water bill is sent to the
payee every two months. Always included in the basic charge for water usage
(approximately $40 - $60 per month, depending on usage, for two students sharing a
studio or one-bedroom apartment) is also the sewer charge of approximately $25.
Questions about water service should be directed to your landlord, if he/she is paying
the bill, or directly to The Board of Water Supply (527-6184). For questions about sewer
service, call 523-4408.
Trash Collection:
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Rarely a visible charge to a renter, trash collection is twice-a-week by either a private
company or The City and County of Honolulu. Some areas on O‘ahu have been directed
to separate trash for recycling purposes (paper, glass, etc.). For more information on
recycling, please visit www.opala.org or call (808) 527-5335.
One of the most important and valued credentials a person develops over time is
his/her credit rating. Once out on your own and fully responsible for paying for the
items you purchase or the services you use, it is imperative that you pay your bills
promptly. The business world has little tolerance for people who are continually in
arrears in their payments. The 1% penalty charged by Hawai‘i utility companies
should be the least worry for people who continually miss payment deadlines.
Rather, it is the loss of your individual credit worthiness that will have long-term,
negative consequences. Don’t force the electric company to turn off your power,
or the water company to shut off your shower, or the telephone company to
terminate your phone service. Use the services wisely, and pay your bills willingly
and promptly.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Very few people in this world are content with the rent they pay. That is particularly true
in popular tourist locations – like Hawai‘i. Rent is cyclic: higher during peak tourist
seasons, and lower during the off season. This is important to remember. Some
landlords will gear their leases to coincide with the tourist season in order to maximize
their profit. Always try to secure a lease for the duration of the semester you plan to
reside in the apartment, and insure that the rent you agree to pay is an average for the
year, not a reflection of the peak season.
A quick scan of the University’s Rental Referral Board or newspaper advertisements will
show you the average rent for a particular type of apartment. At first glance these
averages may seem high. However, Hawai‘i is not only a major, metropolitan area, but
also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. As such, monthly rental
prices may be more than what you expected to encounter.
In the state of Hawaii rent is a significant expense. It is wise to research the average
prices of the area you would like to live in. Please check with the Commuter Services
staff for assistance as they are familiar with the local rental market and can easily
assess if a monthly rent is above the norm. Sometimes it may appear that it is, but,
again, consideration should always be given to what amenities are included, the
location, the furnishings, etc. All play a significant role in determining a fair rent and what
your “bottom line” will be.
YOUR ABILITY TO PAY
Simply stated, landlords want proof of your ability to pay the rent. They know that most
university students are not able to work full-time. Therefore, they want assurance that
you either have or will be provided the required monthly rent. There are several ways
students can document their ability to pay and satisfy the concerns of landlords or rental
management companies. If you or your parents have transferred funds for your living
expenses to a private Hawai‘i bank, bring your account book to show your balance when
you apply for an apartment. If you have transferred money directly to an account at the
University, you may be able to obtain a statement from the Finance and Operations
department to confirm your balance. Also, most landlords and realtors will accept a note
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from your parents that indicates they will be sending you a certain amount each month
for rent and living expenses.
TRANSLATING THE ADVERTISEMENTS
As in every profession, real estate has developed its own jargon, abbreviations, and
acronyms. If you have never read a rental advertisement in the newspaper, you may find
them confusing – even if you read and speak English well. For many international
students, the difficulty is compounded. Here is a typical rental advertisement taken from
the local newspaper:
WAIKIKI: Lux. 1/1; furn; hi Flr. w/DH view, cv’d prkg; nr. beach/bus; w/dry; amen.; sec
bldg.; new appls; utils; cable; cent. a/c; Ig lanai; Ig/shrt term; $900/mo.; sec. dep.
Translation: A luxury, one-bedroom/one-bathroom apartment in Waikiki; fully furnished;
located on a high floor with a Diamond Head view; covered automobile parking; near
beach and bus stop; a washer and dryer in the apartment; amenities (for example:
recreation room, sauna, pool, etc.) included; a secure building (could mean locked front
entrance or on-duty security guard); new appliances in kitchen; all utilities are included in
the monthly rent; cable television service is included; centrally air-conditioned; the unit
has a large lanai (balcony); a long- or short-term lease is acceptable; the monthly rent is
$900 per month; and, security deposit (usually one month’s rent) is required.
Most students looking for off-campus housing must confine their search to
accommodations that are furnished. Obviously, these cost more than unfurnished or
partly furnished units. When a unit is advertised as unfurnished it means exactly that –
there are NO furnishings at all, including NO APPLIANCES in the kitchen. Most often,
this description is reserved for houses that are for rent. Most apartments and
condominiums are, at least, partly furnished, meaning that there are the basic kitchen
appliances, but no tables, chairs, beds, desks, etc.
THE SEARCH
The thought of searching for an apartment in a place you have never been before may
be overwhelming. But, Commuter Services exists – to provide guidance and assistance
to make the process less cumbersome. The average time it takes to find and secure a
rental is two to three weeks. We advise that you allot enough time for your housing
search as well as the move in process.
The best way to begin looking for an apartment is with a friend and a phone. Once you
and your prospective roommate(s) have agreed to a general budget, per person, the
next step is to compile a list of possibilities from the local paper or other internet
resources. As you make preliminary phone calls to determine if the rentals are available,
keep in mind that telephone etiquette is very important.
It is recommended that you be polite and courteous as you inquire about the apartment
or room. You will be surprised how far a simple “Yes, Sir” or “Yes, Ma’am” will go in
easing the concerns of a landlord. If you arrange a time and date to view the apartment,
BE THERE AT LEAST 15 MINUTES EARLY. It is much better for you to wait for the
landlord, than for him/her to wait for you. Make the effort to accurately determine the
exact location of the apartment and the best mode of transportation to get you there on
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time. A few extra dollars for a reliable taxi could save you much in monthly rent. This is
because a landlord is more likely to be flexible on the terms of a rental agreement if a
good rapport is established from the get go.
Being prompt, courteous and reliable are traits that landlords value highly. Although
many pre-qualifiers are based on money matters, it is wise to take any meeting with a
potential landlord seriously.
Some other suggestions to consider are:
• Dress neatly
• Smile and introduce yourself
• Remove shoes before entering the apartment (a Japanese custom that is very
prevalent in Hawai‘i)
• Express appreciation for showing the apartment
First impressions in this scenario are as important as a first impression during a job
interview. Therefore, during that initial phone call, you must convince the landlord that
you are a good candidate so that they feel comfortable renting out the property to you. A
positive experience for both parties is ideal as a person’s living situation.
Take notes about each property you visit. It will help you remember the desirable and
not-so desirable features about the properties. After seeing three or four apartments,
details that could be critical in making a sound decision can be hard to differentiate by
memory alone.
The best advice is to take your time and look carefully at each property. Consider the
following as you evaluate each:
• Cleanliness (Are there bugs?)
• Appearance of neighborhood (look at the people in the surrounding areas)
• Convenience to school, shopping, bus lines
• Evidence of water damage (Evidence of toxic mold?)
• Fire exit/alternate exits
• Fire alarms (Do they work, Can you test them?)
• Strong doors/sturdy locks (How secure is the space?)
• Thick walls between units for noise concerns (Privacy)
• Sufficient closet/cabinet space
• Water pressure in faucets (Check the shower)
• Working appliances
• Laundry facilities
• Adequate living/sleeping space
• Good ventilation
• Noise level around the location (Traffic outside, Noise from Neighbors)
• Privacy from neighbors
• Furnishings
• Resident manager in the building (Do you feel comfortable around them?)
• Adequate night lighting
• Parking
• Length of lease (How easy is it to get out of the lease?)
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Once you find an apartment that meets your budget and needs, take it. Frequently, a
moment of indecision causes a missed opportunity. Wanting to see just one more
apartment, hoping that the rent will be a bit lower or the location a little closer can result
in it not being a better deal, and, worse, possibly losing the first unit you viewed (and
liked).
APPLYING FOR A RENTAL
After you have selected the apartment, condominium, or house you would like to rent,
the next step is the application process. If there is important information you think the
property owner or landlord should know, even if they do not ask for it on the application,
TELL THEM! If you are receiving scholarships, loans, grants, have an outside job, are
responsible, studious, etc., it may be to your benefit to share this information.
If there is an application fee, it is usually less than $25. If you are required to make a
much larger deposit, inquire if it will be applied either to your security deposit or to the
first month’s rent. Some landlords will ask for a larger initial fee to determine your
interest in actually renting a particular unit. Because there are many privately owned
properties managed by individual landlords rather than one central organization, the
requirements to apply, rental conditions, terms and leases are variable.
The application form will ask for information about your personal history, including, but
not limited to, current and past residences (including former landlords), current and past
employment (including former supervisors), credit references, bank accounts
(outstanding balances on current loans),etc. If you are prepared to provide this
information on the spot, it will speed up the application process. It would be beneficial to
have internationally recognized credit cards (e.g., American Express, VISA, MasterCard,
etc.) as proof of your credit reliability. You should also have all pertinent information,
including phone number, about a person who can be contacted in case of emergency.
You can bet that whom ever you list as the “emergency” contact will get a call if you
default on your rent payments, so please keep this in mind.
Students sometimes have difficulty obtaining a rented space because they are not
employed. It is helpful to carry a notarized letter from parents or legal guardian that
indicates they will be responsible for the rent either by sending money regularly to your
bank account or directly to the landlord.
Hawai‘i State Law prohibits discrimination in renting. If you believe that you have been
the victim of some unfair housing practice or have been discriminated against because
of your race, religion, national origin, or sex in the rental of a unit, you can contact the
following agencies to pursue your complaint:
1. For complaints against licensed real estate companies:
Regulated Industries Complaints Office
State of Hawai‘i – State Office Tower, 9th. Floor
235 South Beretania St.
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813-1419
Phone: (808) 587-3222 (consumer resource information line).
2. For landlord-tenant problems:
Office of Consumer Protection
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State of Hawai‘i – State Office Tower, 8th. Floor
235 South Beretania St.
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813-1419
Phone: (808) 586-2634 (landlord-tenant information line).
3. For discriminatory housing complaints:
U.S. Housing and Urban Development
500 Ala Mona Boulevard, Suite 3A
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813-4902
Phone: (808) 522-8175
or call the Housing Discrimination Information hotline at: 1 (800) 669-9777.
The Hawai‘i State Civil Rights Commission
830 Punchbowl Street, Room 411
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813-5017
Phone: (808) 586-8636 (direct line).
4. For advice and referral regarding landlord and/or tenant rental rights:
Community Assistance Division, City and County of Honolulu
Rental Assistance Branch,
842 Bethel Street, 1st. Floor
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813-4390
Phone: (808) 523-4266 (direct line)
.
5. For information on safety/crime statistics, visit the Honolulu Police Web site at:
www.honolulupd.org.
As described earlier in this guide, when you apply and are accepted for a rental, you will
be required to pay the first month’s rent in advance, plus a security deposit that cannot
exceed the value of one month’s rent.
The security deposit is held by the landlord to insure that you fulfill the terms of your
lease and will leave the apartment in good conditions, in terms of both cleanliness and
repair. If you are sharing a rental and only one person’s name is listed on the rental
agreement, it is customary for the security deposit to be returned to the person listed on
the lease. If your landlord returns the deposit in this manner, be sure that you trust this
person listed so that when it comes time to have your portion of the security deposit
returned there will not be an issue.
The Inventory
One of the most frequent issues that occur as tenants vacate an apartment is whether
they are to be held responsible for damage or additional cleaning that is identified during
the final inspection. This final step is required to bring the apartment to an acceptable
rental standard for the next tenant. Often tenants think that their security deposit is held
solely as a guarantee that the final month’s rent will be paid in case the tenants depart
unannounced. Not so! It can, and will, be used to pay for damages you caused or
additional cleaning.
To protect your security deposit two things are required: (1) TAKE CARE OF THE
APARTMENT AND THE FURNISHINGS, and (2) MAKE AN ACCURATE INITIAL
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INVENTORY. (Taking pictures as documentation is a wise idea)
Ideally, the landlord will provide an Inventory form for you to complete once you move in.
A typical form will list each room in the apartment and all the property contained therein.
There will be space to note the condition of walls, floors, cabinets, windows, carpets,
appliances, furniture, etc. It will also list the number of furnishings, including kitchen
utensils, linens, etc.
TAKE THE TIME TO COMPLETE THE INVENTORY PROPERLY. Ensure that ALL
discrepancies (no matter how small or seemingly insignificant) are identified on the form
that is signed by you and the landlord.
You should keep a copy of the Inventory Form so that you are not held responsible for
damage that you did not cause. Always ask the landlord to accompany you on the
preliminary inspection of the unit. If he/she refuses, do it yourself, sign and date the
form, and ask your landlord to do the same. Then give the landlord a copy. If the
landlord refuses to sign the inventory, send a copy to him/her by certified mail with a
request for a receipt which you should retain.
The inventory form is used to determine the condition of an apartment and its contents
before and after occupancy. If there is a discrepancy or a problem is not recorded during
the initial inventory, the tenant can be held accountable and a deduction made from the
security deposit to cover the cost of cleaning, repair, or replacement.
Before you pay the security deposit, it is recommended that you confirm when and under
what conditions it is refundable. By Hawai‘i State Law, you should get your deposit
returned within 14 days after you have officially departed the unit. If there were
deductions made from your security deposit, an itemized bill should accompany the
refund check. Ensure that the lease specifies the terms.
THE LEASE
Some landlords will not require a written lease. Beware! It is always better to have things
in writing – it protects both parties. An oral rental agreement is considered legally
binding, but challenging it could be difficult.
An oral agreement is normally understood to create a month-to-month tenancy. A written
lease may be for any length of time, but usually will not exceed one year. The advantage
of a written lease is that it fixes the rent for the duration of the lease, and provides rights
for the tenant. Conversely, a written document holds the tenant accountable for all
provisions of the lease, which may include limitations that a tenant may find
unacceptable later during the term of the lease.
For example, you should not sign a lease knowing the monthly rent is higher than you
can afford under the premise of finding another student to share occupancy and bills. If
the lease precludes subletting the unit to another person or sets limits of the number of
people that can occupy the unit, you could find yourself in the predicament of being
responsible to pay a monthly rent you cannot afford.
One of the advantages of a month-to-month lease over a long-term lease is that the
tenant can vacate the unit rather quickly by giving the landlord a 28-day notice. But the
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same type of lease permits a landlord to raise the rent or ask the tenant to leave by
giving 45-day notice.
Always review your lease to ensure that you have given leave notice in the appropriate
amount of time. In a long-term lease, should a tenant desire to break the contract early,
the landlord can require the tenant to pay advertising costs to acquire a new tenant, as
well as the full monthly rent during the portion of the lease term that the unit remained
vacant. This could amount to a substantial sum of money.
While written leases may take different forms, there is one in Hawai‘i that is routinely
used. It is endorsed and printed by the Hawai‘i Association of Realtors (their logo is on
the form). Regardless of what type of lease form is used, READ IT BEFORE YOU SIGN
IT!! Rental agreements between landlords and tenants are legal in both oral and written
form. Do not let haste or ignorance affect your good judgment when applying for an
apartment. Take your time and ask questions about anything and everything you do not
understand.
The standard Hawai‘i Association of Realtors lease agreement form has conditions and
requirements printed on both sides. Although most of the information is understandable
to the average person, some terminology can be confusing. The best way to clarify any
confusion is to ask the landlord or managing agent to explain it. However, an
understanding of some basic real estate definitions may give you more confidence in
comprehension.
LEASE: A contract whereby the lawful owner of the property transfers his/her rights of
use and possession to another for a specified term.
LESSEE: One who rents the property under a lease contract, otherwise known as the
tenant. In other words: YOU.
LESSOR: An owner who enters into a lease with a tenant.
RENT: A payment by the tenant for the temporary possession or use of a house, land, or
other property; payment may be in a variety of ways, such as legal tender (money),
provisions, personal property, or labor.
DEPOSIT: Money given by one to another as evidence of good faith.
SECURITY DEPOSIT: A deposit made by the tenant to assure performance of
obligations, usually by the lessee.
ASSIGNMENT: The method or manner by which a right or contract is transferred from
one person to another.
FIXTURE: An article of personal property which has been installed in or attached to land,
or a building thereon, in such a manner that it is then considered part of the real estate.
PRORATE: To divide or distribute (money) proportionately.
DISTRAINT: The right of the landlord to seize and hold possessions of a tenant and
regain possession of real property due to some breach of lease agreement by the
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tenant.
WAIVE: To relinquish or abandon some claim or right.
SUBLEASE: The tenant is permitted to rent the apartment to another person.
There will be occasions where there may be some clauses in a lease that you do not like
or for which you do not want to be held responsible. You are entitled to ask the landlord
to have them removed or changed. If it is a preprinted agreement form, neatly line
through the disputed portions and having both lessor and lessee initial the changes is
acceptable. If you ask to have some items in the lease deleted or changed, be prepared
for the landlord to say “No.”
If you will be sharing the unit with one or more roommates, each of you will be
responsible for all portions of the lease. Also, each person named on the lease must
stay for the entire term unless the lease has a clause that specifically states that a
roommate may be taken off of the lease and replaced by another person. This type of
arrangement is called “assignment.” Since each roommate is responsible for the entire
amount of the rent, if one does not pay his/her portion, the other roommate(s) is equally
responsible for the entire amount.
CHOOSE YOUR ROOMMATE(S) CAREFULLY!
It is difficult for either a landlord or a tenant to evaluate, after only one or two meetings,
the fairness and credibility of the other. Obviously, a healthy and trusting relationship
benefits both, but that may not always be the case. As mentioned earlier, a tenant
should always be cautious in signing a lease. That is particularly true if the printed form
gives the impression that it is a hastily constructed or unprofessional document. As you
carefully read the lease, be aware of statements that cause you to question the validity
of having them included in the lease since they take advantage of the
tenant and make you vulnerable in case of disputes. For example:
1. “Tenant waives the rights of the Landlord-Tenant Code.”
Neither the landlord nor the tenant can agree to waive the right provided under the Land
lord-Tenant Code or agree to something that is unconscionable.
2. “Tenant must pay landlord’s legal costs if he/she tries to seize tenant’s property or
evict the tenant.”
The landlord should not attempt to make the tenant pay for his/her expenses, but it is
also the tenant’s responsibility to abide by all the provisions of the lease so that this type
of incident does not occur.
3. “Tenant agrees to obey all rules, including those not in writing as of the date of this
agreement.” Never agree to abide by rules that are not in writing. Any rules that are not
agreeable to you should be stated and noted on the agreement. If a rule is not
acceptable but you still sign the agreement, you must live with it or decide not to rent the
unit. House rules must be reasonable and proper, apply equally to ALL tenants, and be
clearly brought to the tenant’s attention. Also, if you rent a condominium, there may be
additional association rules with which you must abide. Always ask.
4. “Tenant agrees that rent may be raised during the duration of the lease if landlord’s
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operating expenses increase.” On a month-to-month lease, the landlord can increase
rent if written notice is provided to the tenant 45 consecutive days before the effective
date of the increase. During the term of a written lease (normally in excess of one
month), the rent may not be increased.
5. “The landlord has the right to enter the apartment at his/her discretion.”
The landlord should give the tenant a minium of two-days notice, except, of course, in
emergencies. The landlord may enter to inspect the premises, but cannot abuse the right
of access or use it to harass you. A tenant cannot unreasonably withhold consent unless
the demand is to enter at an unreasonable hour. The landlord will have no other right of
entry, except by court order, unless the tenant appears to have abandoned the
premises.
6. “The landlord is not liable if the tenant is injured or his/her property is damaged, even
if the damage or injury was caused by landlord’s negligence.”
As a general rule, the person occupying the property is liable to others for injuries
caused to them while on the premises, because he/she alone has control and is the one
in the most logical position to correct any dangerous condition. It is prudent for the
landlord to maintain liability insurance, especially if the landlord reserves control of the
premises, however, the landlord is not liable for injury to the tenant or his/her family
caused by conditions on the premises. The tenant is obligated to prevent damage and
unauthorized alteration (“waste”) to the leased premises.
7. “Tenant must pay rent regardless if essential services (e.g., hot water, refrigerator,
etc.) are supplied and not maintained.” A landlord has the responsibility of keeping the
premises in a proper state of repair. After receiving notice from a tenant, the residential
landlord must repair the problem. If the landlord fails to remedy a defect, the tenant may
obtain two estimates and present them to the landlord. Failure to respond will permit the
tenant to proceed with the repair up to $300. Hawai‘i State Law, however, requires the
tenant to pay the agreed-upon rent and pay it on time.
If an apartment or condominium is or will be placed on the housing market to be sold, it
is incumbent upon the owner to notify a prospective tenant of that fact. Normally, a
dwelling for sale requires that it be shown to the general public on a routine basis which
can become a great inconvenience to the person living in it at the time. Showing a
dwelling means the sales representative/real estate agent of the owner will bring people
interested in buying the unit to inspect it at a predetermined time/date. If you agree to
rent an apartment or condominium that is for sale, insure it is stipulated in the lease the
frequency of showings to which you will agree and the amount of advanced notice you
will accept before allowing people to enter and view the dwelling (24-hours notice is
considered reasonable).
In addition to short visits by real estate agents and prospective buyers when a dwelling
is for sale, a more disruptive and long-term inconvenience is the Open House. Most
owners expect their sales representative to occasionally conduct an Open House which
means that anyone interested in the property can visit during a certain period of time
without prior reservations or notification.
Of course, the sales representative must obtain the concurrence of the current tenant to
conduct an Open House. Normally, Open Houses are conducted on Sundays for 3-4
hours in the afternoon. The sales representative will wait in the apartment or home
during the entire period that the dwelling is available for public viewing and brief visitors
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on its features and accompany them on an inspection of all rooms. The tenant is
expected to clean the dwelling thoroughly prior to the Open House and vacate the
apartment until the Open House is complete. Again, it is important that the frequency
of these Open Houses be written into the rental agreement.
If you are renting a room in someone’s house, there may not be a written lease, but
rather, house rules. Be sure that you have the house rules explained to you. Some of
these rules may include what parts of the house to which you will have access or how
much notice your landlord must give you to terminate the lease. An oral lease is binding
under Hawai‘i State Law.
Information about the rights of landlords and tenants can be found in the Handbook of
the Hawai‘i Residential Landlord-Tenant Code published by the State Office of
Consumer Protection.
SETTING UP YOUR HOME
The first item of business after you move in to your new apartment is to notify family,
friends, and creditors of your new address and phone number. If you moved from a
previous local address, also notify the Post Office and your previous landlord
(particularly if you are expecting your security deposit to be mailed to you) of your new
address. Others to notify: bank, doctor, dentist, magazine publishers, charge-card
accounts. Most important is to insure that the UNIVERSITY REGISTRAR has an
accurate local address and telephone number. This is because important financial
documents in regards to the University may be sent by mail.
If you have rented a partly furnished apartment, you will be able to refrigerate and cook
food because the unit will have basic kitchen appliances. Acquiring other furnishings is a
matter of personal taste and budget. For the shared areas of the apartment, roommates
should discuss and agree upon purchases. There are many secondhand furniture stores
in the Honolulu area where you can purchase affordable furniture. Also, furniture may be
leased or rented. Some may not want the hassle of looking for furniture, paying for it,
and transporting it to your apartment. Those who feel this way will probably be amenable
to spending a few extra dollars on a furnished apartment.
Some fully furnished apartments or condominiums come equipped with basic household
items such as dishes, glassware, cookware, and eating utensils. If not, you will need to
purchase these. Other items that you may need to purchase are as follows:
Linens- Bed sheets, pillow cases, blankets, mattress covers
Cleaning Supplies- vacuum, broom, mop, toilet brush, cleaning solutions etc.
All of these items can be found at reasonable prices in stores like Walmart or any
department store. The costs for commonly shared items used by all roommates should
be split equally.
With university students, food costs vary dramatically. If you like to eat out, there are
many traditional fast-food places. Also, the multicultural environment of Hawai‘i has
spawned the explosion of virtually every type of international cuisine imaginable. Rice,
noodle, and curry dishes, as well as Big Mac’s, Whoppers, and curly seasoned frenchfries are easily purchased throughout the city and near the University campuses.
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If you have a kitchen in your apartment and roommate food preferences are not too
divergent, pooling resources to purchase a weekly supply of food from a local
supermarket may save a few dollars. But, there are risks associated with this venture.
“Who ate all the cheese? Where did the soda go?. . .That loaf of bread was just bought
yesterday. . .who ate it?”
Get the picture? For that reason – and the fact that roommates are likely to have
different class schedules and eat on the run – buying main-dish items to cook in the
apartment may not be conducive to positive roommate relationships. It may be better to
equally divide refrigerator and cupboard shelf space, and purchase food individually so
as to promote less tension and confusion.
If you buy smart and use discount coupons (there are many in the local newspapers on
Wednesdays and Sundays), monthly food costs can be reasonably controlled.
Generally, expect to spend about $200 - $350 per month for food.
TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES
Your lease/rent agreement with a landlord carries rights and responsibilities – for BOTH
parties. Most are written into the law (Landlord-Tenant Code) while others are a matter
of common decency and respect for another’s property.
If you have ever permitted a friend or a relative to borrow property of yours only to have
it returned dirty or broken, you know the disappointment and disrespect you feel. In good
faith you allowed the person to use the item with full expectation that it would be
returned in a condition similar to when you lent it out, less normal wear and tear.
That’s what a landlord expects of a tenant – nothing more, nothing less. With a friend or
relative, you would probably absorb the financial loss or fix or repair your property.
However, a landlord has a security deposit (your security deposit) to insure that you will
take care of his/her property.
Cleanliness
The item that costs most tenants a part of their security deposit when they vacate their
apartment is the requirement to hire a professional to clean the apartment and return it
to acceptable standards of cleanliness.
This happens because the tenants do not know how or do not care to clean the mess
they created during their occupancy. As a tenant it is your responsibility to not only leave
your apartment as clean as it was when you moved in, but to keep it reasonably clean
while you are living in it.
As you would expect, reasonably is, indeed, a relative term. To a teenager, a reasonably
clean bedroom may be defined simply as a path from the bed to the door; a reasonably
clean kitchen may mean no more than five bags of trash waiting to be taken out; and a
reasonably clean bathroom may mean . . . well, you get the picture.
There is a saying in Hawai‘i that if you haven’t seen a cockroach in your house yet, just
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wait a minute! Roaches and other pests thrive in the tropical climate here, but
particularly like living where reasonably clean is defined loosely, as in the above
examples.
Dirty dishes, pots, and pans cannot be allowed to accumulate in sinks. Countertops must
be wiped clean. Spilled drinks or food are considered a feast to roaches and ants. Wrap
and store leftovers in the refrigerator or sealed containers to prevent spoiling and an
insect invasion. Keep trash covered and remove it to an outside receptacle as soon as
possible.
It is recommended that to deter dust mites and allergies, carpets should be vacuumed
weekly. Your landlord may provide a vacuum or there may be one already in the
apartment. Keep newspapers off carpets and furniture – the printing ink may rub off on
the fabric.
Use tinfoil on the bottom of the oven and in the trays of stove burners to catch spills and
prevent burned, crusty food buildup.
Keep bathroom sinks, tubs, and toilets clean and fresh. Use a mildew remover to scrub
stubborn mildew stains.
Appliances
If an appliance breaks, the servicing technician can usually tell if it was due to normal
use or tenant abuse. If the damage is caused by tenant abuse it is the tenants
responsibility to pay for the damages so it is highly recommended that care is taken
towards existing appliances.
Stoves and ovens must be cleaned regularly. The longer they are neglected, the more
difficult they are to clean. Refrigerators need periodic cleaning with a mild soap solution.
Placing an opened box of baking soda in the refrigerator will reduce food odors.
Freezers, even the “frost-free” variety, need to be defrosted for efficiency.
When using an automatic dishwasher, insure dishes are rinsed thoroughly before
loading. Only use dishwasher soap, as to avoid damage to the dishwasher should a
different solution be used.
If there is a garbage disposal, start water running into the disposal before you engage
the power switch, keep the water running as the disposal grinds the waste, and leave the
water running a few seconds after in order to flush waste completely from the sink pipes.
Disposals are meant for soft food waste. Never put heavy fibrous material, glass, paper,
metal, bones, or fruit peels in a disposal. Improper use may cause the disposal to
become clogged and result in an overflow. Replacing a disposal or dealing with an
overflow is a costly process that can be avoided.
Repairs
If something should break in your apartment, report it immediately to the landlord or
resident manager. Keep a record of when and how you made notification. In the state of
Hawai‘i, you DO NOT have the right to withhold rent if repairs are not made. However, if
the repairs are necessary to provide sanitary and habitable living conditions (includes
repairs to major appliances), the landlord must take steps to start the repairs within three
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business days from the time of notification, unless the repairs were required because of
misuse by the tenant. If the repair is not an emergency, the landlord must start the
requested repairs within 12 business days after notification. If the landlord does not
inform the tenant of the reason for delaying the repairs, then the tenant may make
repairs and deduct up to $300 from the next month’s rent for the cost of the repairs.
(Section G4, Landlord Tennant Code). If the tenant makes the repairs or contracts to
have them made, he must provide copies of all receipts to the landlord.
Rent Payment
Good tenants pay their rent ON TIME! If you pay cash, ask for a receipt. This is so that
your payment is documented. Remember, you are building your credit history by renting
an apartment. Any type of late payment could jeopardize a very important credential:
credit worthiness. In case of a dispute with your landlord, it is never wise to WITHHOLD
RENT. Payments need to be made without fail. Seek legal counsel should you have an
issue with a landlord, but do not give the landlord anything to use against you. For
specific information regarding this policy you may contact Legal Aide Hawaii.
Overnight Guests
Most lease agreements restrict who can stay overnight in the apartment or
condominium. lf permitted, the tenant is always responsible for the conduct of his/her
guests. No one can share occupancy with you without the expressed consent of the
landlord or resident manager. If you are unsure what, if any, restrictions apply, do not
guess... ask first!
Noise
If your stereo or television is a constant source of annoyance for your neighbors, you
could be evicted. Parties which are loud and disruptive to the privacy of others can result
in the summoning of the police and you searching for new accommodations.
Most resident managers will warn you on the first offense, but will not tolerate any
behavior, individually or collectively, that is continually annoying to other apartment
residents. It is always a good idea to introduce yourself to your immediate neighbors,
above, below, and on either side of your apartment, in order to establish a good rapport
with them.
Pets
From goldfish to a Great Dane, do not attempt to keep a pet in your apartment unless
you have the permission of the landlord. Your lease will normally identify restrictions on
pets. Even if the lease prohibits pets, if you talk with your landlord and convince him/her
that you will be a caring master and not permit the pet to disrupt other tenants or ruin
your apartment, he/she could make an exception.
Always remember, however, that you pay for any damages or extra cleaning involved
with caring for a pet. lf that 30-gallon fish aquarium begins leaking or, worse, is tipped
over during a party, the cost for carpet cleaning, ceiling/floor water damage, etc. will be
your responsibility. If your parakeet or cockatoo continually perches on the drapery rod
and uses it as its restroom, you may have to replace damaged drapes or curtains. Or, if
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your dog or cat sharpens its claws on the leg of the chair, you pay. If you are authorized
to keep a dog or cat in your apartment, you can expect the landlord to have the
apartment fumigated and treated for fleas after you (and your pet) depart. It is normal for
the landlord to defer the costs to you as this is a cost incurred by your ownership of the
pet.
TERMINATING THE LEASE
To terminate a lease, proper notice is required by Hawai‘i State Law. It is best to put
your termination notice in writing in case it ever becomes necessary to present it as
evidence in court. Proper notice is:
Annual lease: 30 days
Monthly lease: 28 days
Weekly lease: 10 days
IF YOUR SIGNED LEASE AGREEMENT ASKS FOR MORE NOTICE, YOU MUST
COMPLY.
The tenant(s) who signed the lease agreement is responsible for paying the rent through
the duration of the lease. If the tenant desires to leave earlier than the contracted
termination date, the landlord must agree. Perhaps, arrangements can be made to
sublet the apartment. The landlord has the right to require compliance with the original
lease agreement. If he makes an exception, there may be expenses involved. For
example, it would be within the landlord’s rights to charge the tenant the cost for
advertising for a new tenant, as well as rent for the period of time the apartment
remained vacant while looking for a new tenant. These charges may be deducted from
the security deposit.
The departing tenant is entitled to receive a security deposit refund within 14 days after
vacating the apartment providing it was done at the end of the lease period or with the
permission of the landlord. A full refund is entitled providing:
1. The dwelling is clean and in as good condition as when it was first rented.
2. There is no damage to the apartment caused by the tenant other than normal
wear and tear.
3. The tenant has not failed to pay rent.
4. The tenant returns all the keys to the landlord on the departure date.
lf there is cause for the landlord to withhold a security deposit, he/she must notify the
tenant, in writing, that such is the case and the reasons why. Additionally, the landlord
should provide written evidence of the cost of remedying the problem so that a security
deposit refund can eventually be made.
What is Clean?
There are many reasons why a tenant will rent one apartment over another. Obviously
cost, location, security, amenities, etc. are important factors. But so is that first, overall
visual impression of the living area. Is it neat, clean, and sanitary? That initial visual
perspective often will be the factor that tips the scale in favor of a certain unit. And it’s in
that same condition, minus normal wear and tear, that the apartment must be left.
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Anything less will cost the tenant.
At times, a glassy, incredulous stare comes over many first-time tenants after being told
that a portion of their security deposit will be deducted for cleaning, damage, etc. The
question is always “Why? I didn’t damage anything, and the apartment was clean. You
have no right to deduct any of my security deposit!”
Ironically, the longer a tenant resides in an apartment, the higher the tendency to
“forget” how clean the apartment was when occupancy began. That usually is the point
of contention, notwithstanding the fact that an inventory should have been accomplished
before and on which all discrepancies, including uncleanliness, annotated.
The Hawai‘i Association of Realtors offer these hints to help you get all or most of your
security deposit refunded:
Exterior and Entry:
Trim grass/bushes; bag and remove all trash; sweep and hose down lanais, patios,
walkways; degrease garage floors/driveways; wash doors, windows, and screens.
Interior Walls:
Remove all nails, tape, and picture hangers; clean spots/smudges especially near light
switches, door handles, and stove; repair any damage, including nail holes.
Windows and Screens:
Remove, clean, and reinstall properly all screens; wash windows (both sides); clean and
clear window sills and sliding tracks.
Draperies and Upholstery:
Clean (professionally if required); vacuum.
Light Fixtures:
Replace burned-out bulbs; clean.
Kitchen:
De-grease and clean (edges and ledges too) all appliances; Stove – DO NOT USE
OVEN CLEANER OR ABRASIVES on self-cleaning/continuous-clean ovens; insure all
racks, drip pans, and rings are clean.
Refrigerator – DO NOT UNPLUG OR TURN OFF; vacuum coils; empty and thoroughly
clean (drips, spills, stains) entire interior, including freezer section (shelves, drawers,
around outer gasket).
Dishwasher – Wash/scrub exterior; thoroughly clean interior; empty.
Fans and Hoods – Degrease and clean (particularly over the stove).
Bathrooms:
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Clean and remove mildew from grout (tub, bowl, and sink); remove soap film from
shower walls; clean all metal fixtures/ faucets; clean/disinfect toilet (under rim); remove
all personal belongings from shelves, drawers, and cabinets; and thoroughly clean.
Closets:
Remove all personal effects and trash; clothes hangers may remain on rods.
Floors and Carpets:
Linoleum or tile floors – must be stripped of wax, thoroughly cleaned and re-waxed,
including areas beneath movable appliances, especially the refrigerator;
Carpets – if soiled or if used for at least one year, they must be professionally cleaned
(dated receipt must be presented as proof); DO NOT USE SUPERMARKET
SHAMPOO/STEAMCLEANING MACHINES as they leave too much soap in the carpet
fibers; vacuum completely.
General:
Close and lock windows and doors; report all damage repaired by you; return all keys
(rent and liability do not cease until all keys are returned to the landlord); be present
when unit is inspected.
If the landlord does not inspect the apartment at a pre-arranged time/date, or refuses to
inspect it before you become unavailable to accompany, take pictures of the interior in
case any questions arise later about the condition in which you left the apartment. That
may sound like an unnecessary or laborious chore, but it will become easier when you
consider that a full month’s rent is at stake!
Do not forget to leave a forwarding address with your landlord (as well as the Post
Office) so your security deposit can be mailed.
The Post Office can provide you with a moving kit so you can easily notify family, friends,
publishers, doctors, dentists, creditors, and anyone else who regularly sends you mail.
DON’T FORGET TO NOTIFY THE UNIVERSITY (Registrar; Admissions; International
Students’ Office, etc.), AS WELL AS THE APPROPRIATE UTILITY COMPANIES to
terminate your services. They, too, need a forwarding address to return any deposits or
request payment for outstanding bills. If someone else is planning to occupy the
apartment and assume payment of the utilities, you must protect yourself and insure that
the payee’s name is transferred to the account so that you are not held responsible.
This guide has been prepared by the University Housing Office using many official
sources of information as well as the experience and opinions of many landlords,
tenants, rental-management agencies, etc. It is intended solely to serve as a general
reference for students of Hawai‘i Pacific University who have had little prior experience
in renting and maintaining an apartment on their own.
While every effort was made to insure the accuracy of the information provided herein,
the University accepts no liability for items contained in this guide that may be erroneous
due to changes in laws or real estate standards of conduct or which are based on the
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professional opinion of personnel consulted.
Entering a rental agreement is a serious and important decision for both tenant and
landlord. It is incumbent on both parties to familiarize themselves with the applicable
laws as well as to exercise great care and concern before signing a lease. It would be
prudent to remember an old adage when contemplating any rental agreement: “An
ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
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