Bill > HB1186

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for addressing bed bug infestations in rental properties in Hawaii, requiring landlords to take specific actions to prevent, detect, and treat bed bug problems. The legislation mandates that landlords cannot rent a dwelling unit they know has a current bed bug infestation and must visually inspect units for evidence of bed bugs before renting. When a tenant or landlord discovers a potential infestation, the landlord must acknowledge the notice within five days, inspect the unit, and if an infestation is confirmed, take several required actions within seven days, including hiring a licensed pest control operator, inspecting adjacent units, notifying affected tenants and the health department, and maintaining detailed records. The bill also clarifies cost responsibilities for remediation, generally making the landlord responsible for investigating and treating infestations within 60 days of lease commencement, with potential cost-sharing after that period. Tenants are prohibited from knowingly bringing bed bug-infested items into a unit and must notify landlords of suspected infestations. The law applies to various housing types, including public housing, university dormitories, and private rentals, and defines key terms like "bed bug infestation" and "bed bug remediation" to provide clarity and enforceability.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1186&year=2026