Mediation Centers of Hawaii (MCH)
Mediation Centers of Hawaii (MCH) is a Hawaii nonprofit organization contracted by the Hawaii State Judiciary to provide mediation services under Act 278. Member organizations under the MCH umbrella are local mediation centers throughout the State of Hawaii with offices on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, and Kauai.
Pre-filing Eviction Mediation for Hawai`i
A statewide program created in response to Act 278 to provide early and free mediation for landlords and tenants before eviction proceedings for nonpayment of rent are filed.
What is ACT 278?
ACT 278 establishes a two-year pilot program requiring early and free mediation between landlords and tenants before eviction for nonpayment of rent. The program runs from February 5, 2026 through February 4, 2028. Hawai`i State Legislature SLH2025_Act278.
Extended Notice Period
Tenants now have 10 calendar days to respond to an eviction notice.
Mandatory Mediation
If a tenant requests mediation within 10 days from receipt of a notice to evict, then the landlord must participate before filing for eviction.
Statewide Access
Mediation will be available through the five community mediation centers located throughout the State.
NO COST
There is no cost to landlord or tenant for the mediation services provided through the Act 278 Program.
How It Works
Notice Issued
Landlord provides tenant and the mediation center on the island where tenant resides with a 10-day eviction notice for nonpayment of rent.
Request Mediation
Tenant has ten (10) days from the date they receive the Eviction Notice (postmark date on envelope or date posted on property) to request mediation through the local mediation center where the rental unit is located.
Schedule Session
Mediation must be scheduled within ten (10) days, and must take place within 30 days, from the date the mediation center makes contact with the landlord or landlord’s agent and the tenant. Mediation sessions are conducted online via Zoom or in person (per request). Tenants or landlords may participate in the Zoom mediation from the offices of the community mediation center where the rental property is located.
Make Agreements
Landlord and tenant work with an impartial mediator to make agreements such as: a payment plan to catch up on overdue rent, agreement on a move-out date that works for both parties, resolution of other issues affecting the rental relationship.
Our Member Organizations
Mediation Centers of Hawai`i is a consortium of five 501(c)(3) community based organizations serving the communities across all Hawai`i islands.
For Landlords
Before filing for eviction due to nonpayment of rent, you will need to participate in mediation if your tenant requests it. Learn about your obligations and how to submit your 10 day notice.
Landlord InformationFor Tenants
If you've received an eviction notice, you have the right to request mediation. Learn how to protect your rights and work toward a solution with your landlord.
Tenant Information