H.B. 1515 Summary

• Creates new chapter in Hawaii Revised Statutes establishing liability process for landlords when tenants commit acts of harassment (harassment, assault, stalking, theft, or similar acts) that disturb a neighbor's quiet enjoyment of their dwelling unit.

• Neighbors may file complaints against landlords seeking compensatory damages and other relief if they prove by preponderance of evidence that the tenant committed the alleged harassment act.

• Court must consider six factors when determining landlord liability: whether act occurred on tenant's premises, whether landlord could have intervened lawfully, witness credibility, landlord's prior notice of similar acts, prior proceedings against landlord, and other relevant factors.

• Allows neighbors to request writs of possession requiring the landlord to take possession of the tenant's unit, with court considering nature of harassment, prior acts, landlord's willingness to take possession, and other relevant factors.

• Does not prohibit persons from seeking relief under common law or other applicable laws and takes effect upon approval.