Here’s the good news: South Carolina is often considered one of the most landlord-friendly states in the U.S. For rental property owners, this means fewer bureaucratic hurdles and more straightforward processes when managing your rental properties, whether they are long-term leases or short-term vacation properties.
We don’t have the rent control that other states have. We don’t have exhaustive eviction procedures.
However, being “landlord-friendly” doesn’t mean you’re exempt from understanding and complying with key landlord/tenant laws. There are still tenant protections to respect, and your property still needs to remain habitable and safe.
Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to costly disputes and even legal complications.
If you’re renting out a property in Murrells Inlet, we’re providing you with an update on the landlord and tenant laws you need to know.
Why Murrells Inlet and South Carolina Is Considered Landlord-Friendly
South Carolina’s landlord/tenant legal framework leans in favor of property owners. The state’s laws are designed to ensure landlords have the flexibility to manage their property and enforce rental agreements without excessive legal red tape. This is good news for Murrells Inlet landlords. For example:
- Quick Eviction Timelines. If tenants violate lease agreements or fail to pay rent, landlords can initiate eviction proceedings and regain possession of the property within a relatively short timeframe.
- Freedom to Set Rental Rates. Landlords in Murrells Inlet are free to determine rental prices without interference from rent control regulations, allowing you to stay competitive in the local market.
While these benefits make managing rental properties in Murrells Inlet a bit easier, it’s still critical to know and follow the rules.
Essential Landlord Laws You Should Know
Here’s our updated overview of the current laws and how you can comply as a rental property owner in Murrells Inlet and throughout South Carolina.
- Lease Agreements
Whether you’re renting out vacation properties along the coast or residential homes in established Murrells Inlet neighborhoods, a solid lease agreement is absolutely essential to your landlord/tenant relationship. South Carolina law allows both written and oral agreements, but written agreements are strongly recommended as they provide clear documentation of the terms. You’re more protected when you have your lease terms in writing. Key elements in a lease agreement include:
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- Rent amount and payment due dates
- Security deposit details
- Pet policies
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Length of the lease term
By including these components, you’ll avoid misunderstandings and ensure compliance with South Carolina landlord laws. You want your lease agreement to be both compliant with the law and legally enforceable.
- Security Deposits Regulations
South Carolina law governs how Murrells Inlet landlords handle security deposits. It doesn’t impose limits on the amount you can charge, which is another landlord-friendly feature of owning rental properties here, but it does dictate how and when these deposits should be returned.
First, there’s the timing. Landlords are required to return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates the property. Deductions must be carefully documented, too. Landlords can deduct for unpaid rent, damages exceeding normal wear and tear, or breach of the lease agreement, but must provide an itemized statement with any deductions. Failing to comply with these requirements can result in penalties, including having to pay the tenant three times the amount of the deposit.
- Habitability Standards
Under South Carolina’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords in Murrells Inlet are legally required to ensure rental properties meet basic habitability standards. What does this mean?
It means you have to provide a safe and structurally sound property. Your rental home will need to have working heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. There needs to be adequate water and sanitation.
Routine maintenance and prompt attention to repair requests are not just good practice—they’re legal requirements. Failure to provide habitable living conditions can result in tenants filing complaints and terminating the lease, or even withholding rent and putting the money to having the repairs made by their vendor.
- Notice Requirements
Clear communication is vital, especially when it comes to notices for lease termination, rent increases, or entry to the rental property. South Caroline law requires a 30-day written notice if you’re going to terminate the lease once the lease has come to an end. You alslo want to respect your tenant’s privacy. The law requires at least a 24-hour notice before entering the property for inspections or repairs, unless the repair is an emergency and requires immediate attention.
Staying proactive and transparent about notices can help build trust with tenants while ensuring you stay on the right side of the law.
- Eviction Procedures
Eviction is never a pleasant process, but state laws make it less complicated for landlords in Murrells Inlet who want to reclaim possession of their property. The most common reasons for eviction include nonpayment of rent, property damage, or lease violations. When pursuing eviction:
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- Provide a 5-day notice for nonpayment of rent (unless your lease states otherwise, or already includes it).
- File an eviction notice with the court if the tenant doesn’t resolve the issue within the 5-day period.
- Obtain legal possession of the property through the court system—self-help evictions are illegal.
Following the correct legal procedure is essential. Overstepping boundaries can lead to lawsuits or fines.
Why Compliance with South Carolina Landlord Laws Matters
Even in a landlord-friendly state, compliance should always be a top priority. Adhering to legal standards helps you:
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- Avoid costly disputes or lawsuits.
- Retain long-term, high-quality tenants.
- Protect your reputation as a responsible landlord.
It’s not just about avoiding problems; it’s also about building a solid foundation for long-term success in rental property management.
We can help with any of these legal issues. Our team of professional Murrells Inlet property managers will manage your risk and protect you from legal liability.
Let’s talk about how we can help. Contact us at J & P Unlimited. We manage investment properties in Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, Socastee and the surrounding areas.
