Recent severe storms in Hawaii have caused widespread damage to homes, leading to a surge in inquiries at the Landlord Tenant Information Center. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is investigating whether the increase in calls is directly related to the storm damage. The center advises tenants and landlords to document all communications in writing to avoid disputes. Landlords are required to maintain habitable living conditions, ensuring properties are safe and structurally sound, and tenants cannot be forced to pay for repairs due to storm damage. However, landlords may request tenants to contribute to repair costs, leaving the decision to the tenants.