2-Day / 48-Hour Entry Notice for Landlords in Hawaiʻi

(HRS § 521-53 – Landlord’s Right of Entry)

Under HRS § 521-53, landlords in Hawaiʻi must give at least two days’ notice (minimum 48 hours notice) before entering a tenant’s unit, unless an actual emergency exists and/or another exception under the law applies. This requirement applies to routine inspections, maintenance, repairs, showings, and any planned entry into or across the threshold of the rental home. Even brief visits or quick visual checks should follow the notice rule to avoid misunderstandings or allegations of improper access.

For Honolulu landlords, providing proper written notice is one of the simplest ways to prevent disputes. Tenants may feel startled or uncomfortable if a landlord appears without warning, and these interactions can quickly lead to claims of harassment, retaliation, quiet enjoyment violations, or invasion of privacy. A clear 48-hour notice protects both sides and establishes a record of professionalism and compliance.

Why Proper Entry Notice Matters

Even when a landlord’s purpose is reasonable, problems often arise from how the entry was handled. Common issues include:

• Knock-and-enter misunderstandings
• Showing up at the property without written notice
• Entering for a “quick check” without scheduling
• Tenants claiming surprise or intimidation
• Disputes about whether access was agreed to
• Different times and coordination issues
• Authorized entry into restricted or sensitive areas

Using a proper written 2-day notice under HRS § 521-53 creates structure, clarity, and documentation. It also helps landlords avoid retaliation claims later if a dispute develops, because the record shows consistent, neutral procedures.

A Simple Notice Can Prevent Larger Problems

A proper entry notice:

• Sets expectations and reduces conflict
• Shows professionalism and good-faith communication
• Protects against claims of improper entry or harassment
• Establishes clear documentation if issues arise later
• Helps landlords maintain consistent policies and procedures

For many landlords, a well-drafted notice becomes part of a broader best-practice routine that keeps interactions predictable and avoids surprises for everyone involved.

How Our Office Assists Landlords

Jonathan Kam, a Honolulu landlord attorney, helps Oʻahu and Hawai’i property owners create compliant and practical entry-notice procedures. Support may include:

• Preparing clear 2-day / 48-hour notices tailored to your property
• Creating templates and policies for routine inspections
• Advising on best practices for communication and timing
• Helping prevent harassment, retaliation, and privacy claims
• Documenting notices properly to protect the landlord’s record

The goal is straightforward: help landlords comply with HRS § 521-53, maintain good tenant relations, and avoid unnecessary disputes.

If You Need Guidance

If you are a landlord on Oʻahu or throughout Hawai’i and want assistance preparing a 2-day entry notice, establishing inspection policies, or addressing tenant concerns about access, our office can help you take the correct next steps.