University of Hawaii
Guide to Living Off Campus
Updated July 2005

Repairs
Rent payments
Overnight guests
Pets
Other considerations

BEING A GOOD TENANT
It is your responsibility as a tenant to keep your dwelling reasonably clean. This will also discourage bugs, such as cockroaches from moving in with you.

Repairs
When something in your apartment needs repairing, report it in writing to your landlord. Date your maintenance request and keep a copy for yourself. In the state of Hawaii, 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 (these include repairs to major appliances and necessary facilities), the landlord must take steps to start the repairs within 3 business days from the time he is notified of the condition, unless the repairs were required because of misuse by the tenant. If the repair is not an emergency, then the landlord must start the requested repairs within 12 business days after receiving written notice. If the landlord does not inform the tenant of the reason for delaying the repair, then the tenant may make repairs and deduct up to $500 from the next month's rent for the cost of the repairs. If the tenant makes the repairs, or has them made, he must give the landlord copies of all receipts connected with the repairs work.

Rent Payment
Good tenants pay their rent on time. If you pay cash, ask for a receipt. Remember that by renting an apartment you are beginning to build your credit history. Do not give yourself a black mark by being late with the rent. In case of a dispute with your landlord, do not withhold rent. Seek the advice of an attorney in any dispute with your landlord.

Overnight Guests
When having overnight guests, check your lease for restrictions on the number of guests and the length of time they may stay. Under most leases, you are responsible for the behavior of your guests. Do not let anyone move in with you without the approval of your landlord. Use your judgment and always inquire with the landlord when in doubt.

Pets
Be sure to read your lease or ask your landlord if you desire to have some pets. Some landlords prefer that you don't have any pets, but if you inform them about what type of pet you would be caring for, then quite possibly he/she may let you care for the pet. The landlord may also evict you if he/she specifically has stated on your contract that pets are not allowed. Whether or not you care for a pet, be sure to maintain the interior and exterior of the rental unit.

Other Considerations
If you share walls with others, be considerate of their right. They may not want to listen to your favorite albums and tapes. Under some leases, if your neighbors complain about you, your landlord has the right to evict you.

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