Mediation Centers of Hawaiʻi (MCH)

Mediation Centers of Hawaiʻi (MCH) is a statewide nonprofit organization that brings together housing providers and tenants with community mediation centers across Hawaiʻi. MCH is contracted by the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary to provide mediation services under Act 278 through member centers on Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island, and Kauaʻi. We believe in the power of dialogue to build understanding, solve problems, and strengthen Hawaiʻi’s families and communities.

ACT 278 Pilot Program

Pre-filing Eviction Mediation for Hawaiʻi

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.

Submit Landlord Intake Form

Public service announcement

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. Hawaiʻi State Legislature SLH2025_Act278 (opens in new window).

Extended Notice Period

Tenants now have 10 calendar days to respond to a notice.

Mandatory Mediation

If a tenant requests mediation within 10 days from receipt of a notice, 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 notice for nonpayment of rent.

Request Mediation

Tenant has ten (10) days from the date they receive the 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 Hawaiʻi is a consortium of five 501(c)(3) community based organizations serving the communities across all Hawaiʻi 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 Information

For Tenants

If you've received a notice, you have the right to request mediation. Learn how to protect your rights and work toward a solution with your landlord.

Tenant Information

Ready to start the mediation process?