Staying compliant with rental regulations will help you avoid fines and penalties while creating a safe, fair, and successful rental experience for you and your tenant. Longs continues to attract renters due to its proximity to the Grand Strand, reasonable cost of living, and growing economy. That’s good news when you have a rental property here. But, with opportunity comes responsibility. Understanding the local, state, and federal laws that govern your role as a landlord is essential to long-term success.
As professional property managers in Longs, we have a lot of experience with rental laws and regulations. Fortunately, this is a landlord-friendly area. There’s no rent control to worry about, and evicting a tenant is fairly straightforward. However, there are still laws around security deposits, habitability, and tenant privacy.
Because we so often get asked about rental laws and tenant protections, we thought we’d break down the key regulations you need to know and provide practical steps to keep your rental business legally sound.
Understand South Carolina’s Landlord-Tenant Act
The foundation of landlord compliance in Longs is the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (SCRLTA). This law governs rental agreements, tenant rights, and landlord obligations across the state. The key requirements in this law are as follows:
- Security Deposits. South Carolina does not set a maximum limit on security deposits, but landlords must return the deposit within 30 days after the lease ends, along with an itemized list of deductions (if any).
- Habitability Standards. Landlords are required to maintain safe and habitable properties, including working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.
- Notice for Entry. Except in emergencies, landlords must give 24 hours’ notice before entering a rental property.
To stay compliant, familiarize yourself with the full text of the Act and consult with a property management professional. We can make sure you don’t stumble over any legal missteps.
Create a Legally Sound Lease Agreement
A written lease is a legal contract, and in South Carolina, having one is strongly recommended (and often necessary for enforcement). The lease should clearly outline:
- Rent amount and due date
- Security deposit terms
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Rules on pets, subletting, and occupancy limits
- Grounds for eviction
Avoid using generic online templates. Instead, work with a Longs property manager to use state-specific lease forms to ensure compliance with South Carolina laws.
Know and Follow Fair Housing Laws
Both federal and state fair housing laws prohibit discrimination against tenants or applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. South Carolina adds no additional protected classes and generally follows the federal laws. There are some things you can do to ensure you don’t inadvertently violate a fair housing law. For example, use consistent screening criteria for all applicants. Avoid language in ads like “ideal for single professionals” or “no kids.”
Always make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. You have to allow service animals, for example. Violations can result in serious legal and financial consequences, even if unintentional.
Comply with Property Maintenance Codes
If you’re renting out units in a multifamily apartment building, you’ll want to pay attention to Horry County’s building and safety standards. Responsibilities include:
- Maintaining structural integrity of buildings
- Ensuring heating, plumbing, and electrical systems work properly
- Keeping common areas clean and safe
Regular inspections and prompt attention to tenant maintenance requests can help you stay ahead of issues.
Eviction Rules and Procedures
Eviction in South Carolina must follow a specific legal process. You cannot remove a tenant without a court order. All evictions will start with a Notice to Quit. For nonpayment of rent, you must provide a 5-day written notice (unless your lease waives this requirement). After the notice period ends and the tenant has not come into compliance, you’ll want to file a Rule to Show Cause in magistrate court. Then, a hearing will be scheduled, where both sides can present evidence. If the court rules in your favor, the sheriff may physically remove the tenant.
Trying to evict a tenant through “self-help” measures, like changing the locks or shutting off utilities, is illegal and can expose you to lawsuits.
Handle Security Deposits Properly
Security deposit disputes are among the most common landlord-tenant issues. To minimize conflicts, make sure you provide a move-in inspection checklist signed by both parties. Document the property’s condition with photos or videos, and keep records of all repairs and deductions.
South Carolina requires that security deposits be returned (with itemized deductions) within 30 days after the lease ends.
Stay Up to Date on Local Legal Changes
Longs is part of a rapidly developing region. With increased growth we can expect that there may eventually be more regulation. It’s important for landlords to stay informed. Here are some of the ways you can make sure you don’t fall behind when it comes to legal updates and requirements.
- Subscribe to Horry County and local government updates
- Participate in town hall meetings
- Follow local real estate boards and property owner associations
If you manage multiple units, you’ll especially want to track zoning changes, occupancy limits, and tourism-related regulations.
Work with Professionals
Longs property management companies prioritize legal compliance. Don’t try to do it all alone, because making a legal mistake is surprisingly easy.
Partnering with professionals can help ensure compliance and peace of mind. We prioritize professional development around ethics, laws, and best practices. We also ensure compliance with and adherence to state laws. We also work closely with local attorneys, who help us with drafting leases and mediating legal disputes. The accounting statements we provide can help with tax deductions and business structuring for rental income.
The cost of professional help often pales in comparison to the potential penalties for noncompliance.
Being a landlord in Longs, South Carolina means staying on the right side of the law. Rental regulations are in place to protect both landlords and tenants, and maintaining compliance is key to building a reputable and profitable rental business.
Let’s make sure everything is in place, legally. Contact us at J & P Unlimited. We manage investment properties in Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, Longs, Socastee and the surrounding areas.
