Summary
Tenants in Hawaii are responsible for damages beyond normal wear and tear, while landlords must maintain the property. Without documentation, tenants may not be liable for damages like leaks. Reasonable accommodations for disabilities may be required under the Fair Housing Act. Landlords can charge for damages like stained upholstery or broken lights, but not for normal wear and tear. If items arent removed in time, landlords may charge rent, depending on lease terms. Consult local resources for guidance.Full Conversation
moved out of house, toilet leaked and damaged drywall, wasn't aware of leak, owner charging me for damages
Ayanda, here’s some general information regarding such situations in Hawaii:
- Tenant Responsibility: Tenants are generally responsible for damages they cause through negligence.
- Landlord Responsibility: Landlords must maintain the property and fix issues that arise from normal wear and tear.
Did the landlord inspect the property before you moved out, and was there any documentation of the leak?
no documentation of leak
Thanks for the information, Ayanda.
In Hawaii, the landlord must provide evidence of damages caused by negligence. Since there's no documentation of the leak, you might not be fully liable.
I recommend contacting the Hawaii State Office of Consumer Protection for guidance.
Do you have any other details or questions?
husband is disabled and couldn't remove posessions from rental property in alloted time, should he have been given more time due to his disability?
Your husband may have been entitled to reasonable accommodations due to his disability under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). It’s important to consult with a local attorney or the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission to explore your options.
Do you have any other details or questions regarding your situation?
can landlord charge me for fixing upholstery or replacing broken lights
In Hawaii, landlords can charge tenants for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
- Upholstery: If the damage is beyond normal wear, the tenant may be responsible.
- Broken Lights: Tenants are generally responsible for replacing broken lightbulbs unless stated otherwise in the lease.
Do you want to know more about what constitutes normal wear and tear?
yes
Normal wear and tear typically refers to the natural deterioration that occurs with regular use over time. Here are some examples:
- Normal Wear and Tear:
- Fading paint
- Slightly worn carpets
- Minor scuffs on walls
- Damage Beyond Normal Wear and Tear:
- Stained upholstery
- Broken light fixtures
- Large holes in walls
Do you need more specific examples or have any other questions?
more specific examples
Sure, Ayanda! Here are some more specific examples:
- Normal Wear and Tear:
- Small nail holes or pinholes in walls
- Minor scratches on hardwood floors
- Wear on door handles and locks
- Damage Beyond Normal Wear and Tear:
- Burns or large stains on carpets
- Broken windows or doors
- Holes in walls larger than nail holes
Do you have any other concerns about your rental situation?
can a landlord charge me rent for not removing items in time
In Hawaii, if you didn't remove your items in time, the landlord might be able to charge you rent for the period the items remained. This is often stipulated in the lease agreement. It's recommended to review your lease terms for any clauses related to this.
Do you have any other questions or need more details on this?
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