Unsafe rental unit in Princeville - Who can I report this to

Question

I am in need of some advice. My family and I just checked into a unit in Princeville last night and have discovered several concerning issues, some of which are serious safety hazards. I've tried calling the management company, Kauai Kahuna and the after-hours emergency number said they would pass on my message, but that's all.

I am looking for advice on where to report these issues, specifically the safety hazards. Here's a quick list of what we're dealing with:

Potential Asbestos Hazard: The unit has an old popcorn ceiling, and parts of it are chipping off, which could expose people to asbestos.

Safety Hazards with Appliances: The dishwasher is falling out of its cabinet and could seriously injure someone if it falls completely. The stove coils are so badly tilted that utensils slide off if they aren't constantly moved, which is a fire hazard.

Extreme Heat: I understand AC isn't everywhere in Hawaii, but the unit stays at 90°F for most of the day. There's only one ceiling fan, and the speed control is out of reach. The "solution" they provided was to keep all windows and doors open, even when we leave.

On top of all this, there are numerous other cleanliness issues that I plan to dispute with my credit card company.

Any ideas on where I can report these serious safety issues with the ceiling and appliances?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Answer

I'm sorry you're dealing with this situation. In Hawaii, there are several avenues to report unsafe rental conditions, especially when there are serious safety hazards like potential asbestos, dangerous appliances, or extreme heat that could affect health and safety.

Here’s what you can do:

Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) – Environmental Health: For potential asbestos hazards, you should report immediately. The DOH’s Hazardous Waste and Toxics program can provide guidance and investigate possible asbestos exposure in rental units.
Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) – Occupational Safety and Health Division: If appliances or structures pose immediate physical danger (like the dishwasher and stove), they may provide advice, especially if these hazards violate building or safety codes.
Kauai County – Housing or Code Enforcement: Kauai County Code Enforcement handles unsafe rental units. They can inspect properties for compliance with local building, electrical, and safety codes and issue orders to remedy dangerous conditions.
Attorney General or Consumer Protection Division – Hawaii State: For rental units that are unsafe or misrepresented, you can file a complaint. They handle landlord-tenant disputes and can provide guidance on legal rights and next steps.
Your Credit Card Company: Since you mentioned planning to dispute charges, ensure you document all hazards and unsafe conditions with photos and written notes. This will help support your claim for a refund or chargeback if the unit was misrepresented.

Practical steps you can take immediately:

Document everything with detailed photos and videos, including dates and times.
Keep records of all communication with the property management company.
Do not attempt to disturb or remove potential asbestos materials yourself—avoid inhaling dust and minimize exposure.
If the unit is uninhabitable due to safety concerns, consider relocating to a safe hotel and retaining receipts for potential reimbursement.
Call 911 or local authorities if there is an immediate risk of injury, such as the dishwasher or stove hazard.

In summary, your best immediate actions are to report the asbestos concern to the Hawaii Department of Health, unsafe appliance issues to Kauai County Code Enforcement, and consider filing a complaint with the State Consumer Protection Division. Meanwhile, document everything and consider temporary relocation if the unit poses immediate danger.

Unsafe rental unit in Princeville - Who can I report this to

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