I’m a tenant in Hawaiʻi dealing with a situation that’s gotten progressively worse, and I’m hoping for advice on what my rights are and what steps I should take next.
A few weeks ago, I discovered bedbugs in my room. I immediately reported it and cooperated fully with cleaning, vacuuming, and treatment. I’ve been documenting everything. Despite this, my landlord has been blaming me for the infestation without any evidence.
Here are the main issues:
• Physical contact: During a conversation, she got upset and jabbed me in the back with her finger. It wasn’t an accident — it was out of anger.
• Pressure to leave: She’s told me I should “stay somewhere else” and has made comments that feel like she’s trying to push me out without any formal notice.
• Unequal treatment: There’s a washer and dryer in the house, but she won’t let me use it. I’m expected to go to the laundromat while other people in the house use the machines.
• Internet disruptions: I interview for remote jobs, and the household sometimes lets the internet go offline. I’ve offered to fix it and explained the importance of my interviews, but nothing changes.
• Noise issues: I work overnight and need mornings to sleep, but the house is extremely loud during my recovery hours.
• Financial impact: I’ve had to pay for laundromat use, cleaning supplies, and deal with missed or disrupted job interviews due to internet issues.
I’m on SSDI and trying to get back into remote work, so these disruptions are affecting my income and stability.
I’ve already contacted Legal Aid and completed an intake, but I haven’t heard back yet. In the meantime, I want to understand what my rights are and whether any of this qualifies as harassment, retaliation, or something I can take action on.
What steps should I take while waiting for Legal Aid to respond?
Is documenting everything enough for now?
Has anyone dealt with something similar in Hawaiʻi?
Any guidance is appreciated.