When renting out a property in South Carolina, landlords must comply with federal, state, and local laws. Various landlord disclosures must be provided to prospective tenants before signing a lease. Failure to disclose necessary information can lead to legal disputes, fines, or tenant complaints.
If you’re a landlord, here's what you need to know about your disclosure responsibilities in South Carolina.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
Under federal law, you must inform tenants about the presence of lead-based paint in rental units built before 1978. Through the Fair Housing Act, the federal government requires landlords like you to provide tenants with an EPA-approved pamphlet explaining the risks of lead exposure. You must also include a lead-based paint disclosure form with the lease agreement detailing any known hazards.
Security Deposit Terms
Security deposits are a common source of disputes between landlords like you and tenants. As a landlord, South Carolina law requires you to provide tenants with information about the security deposit amount, the conditions under which deductions may occur, and the timeline for returning the deposit. You may face legal penalties if you fail to return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days after the lease ends.
Housing Code Violations
You must notify tenants of any existing housing code violations that could affect their health or safety. If a rental unit has unresolved issues such as faulty wiring, plumbing leaks, or structural damage, you must disclose these problems before signing a lease agreement. Informing prospective tenants about such conditions helps ensure transparency and compliance with local law.
Mold, Pest, and Habitability Issues
South Carolina does not have specific statutes requiring landlords like you to disclose mold issues. However, general habitability laws require maintaining a safe and livable rental property. If a rental unit has a history of mold or pest infestations, it’s best to inform tenants before they move in. As a landlord, you should also outline any ongoing pest control services and clarify whether you or the tenant is responsible for pest-related costs.
Utilities and Shared Metering
You must disclose this arrangement to tenants if utilities are shared among multiple rental units. This includes providing clear information on how utility bills are divided and what portion the tenant is responsible for paying. If there are separate meters, you should specify whether the tenant must set up an individual account.
Flood Zone Notification
South Carolina law does not mandate flood zone disclosures, but it is good practice for landlords like you to warn tenants if a property is in a high-risk flood area. This information can help tenants make informed decisions about obtaining renters’ insurance.
Stay Compliant with Stinger Home Management
Understanding and following South Carolina’s required landlord disclosures can help protect landlords like you from legal risks while fostering a trustworthy relationship with tenants. At Stinger Home Management, we help landlords like you manage legal requirements and ensure all disclosures are appropriately handled. Contact us today for practical assistance in managing your rental property or ensuring compliance with state regulations.
