Episode 59: Hawaii Landlord-Tenant Code with the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii
Summary
As a Landlord, you need to know WHO to call for HELP! This episode is specifically to the Landlords of Hawaii, featuring guest Nick Severson, Managing Attorney for the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii's Housing and Consumer Unit. We talk all about the Hawaii Landlord-Tenant Code, the biggest mistake landlords are making in Hawaii (and beyond), and how the recent wildfires are impacting tenancy relationships. Nick guides Landlords and Tenants to resources for help, including the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii!
Listen to full episode :
This week’s blog post:
Hello, I'm Dr. Jennifer Salisbury, your guide through the complex world of landlord-tenant relations. In today's episode, we delve into the intricacies of the Hawaii Landlord-Tenant Code, especially in the backdrop of the recent wildfires. Joining us is Nick Severson, the Managing Attorney of Housing and Consumer Unit at the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii.
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii: A Beacon of Hope
Nick gives us an insight into the mission and reach of the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, highlighting its role as the state's oldest and largest nonprofit law firm. Serving primarily low-income individuals, the society handles a plethora of legal issues, ranging from family law to housing, consumer-related issues, and more.
The Impact of Proclamations on Rental Agreements
The conversation takes a deeper dive into the significant impacts of gubernatorial proclamations on the rental market in Maui. Nick explains how these proclamations, aimed at maintaining a status quo, curtail landlords' ability to terminate rental agreements or increase rent, providing much-needed stability in tumultuous times.
Navigating the Complexities of Fair Housing
The discussion turns to the nuances of fair housing laws, where Nick emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications of these laws on advertising and tenant selection. He sheds light on the concept of 'disparate impact discrimination' and advises landlords to be mindful of how certain policies might inadvertently affect protected groups.
The Peculiarities of Hawaii's Landlord-Tenant Landscape
Comparing Hawaii's landlord-tenant laws to those of other states, Nick remarks that Hawaii stands somewhat in the middle in terms of tenant and landlord friendliness. However, he notes the progressive nature of Hawaii's state fair housing law, offering broader protection than many other states.
Practical Advice for Landlords and Tenants
As the conversation winds down, Nick offers practical advice for both landlords and tenants. He underscores the importance of knowledge, communication, and utilizing resources like the landlord-tenant handbook provided by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. For those facing legal challenges, he highlights the availability of mediation services as a non-legal avenue to resolve disputes.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In wrapping up, I urge listeners to identify and connect with local fair housing resources. Understanding your rights and responsibilities, and knowing where to turn for help, is crucial, whether you're in Hawaii or elsewhere.
Thank you for tuning in to this insightful discussion with Nick Severson.
Remember, your comments and questions are the bedrock of our podcast. Email me at learn@mylifeasalandlord.com with your thoughts or suggestions for future episodes. Until next time, this is Dr. Jennifer Salisbury, signing off from "My Life as a Landlord".