What should I do if there is visible mold in my rental?

Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible, describe the mold’s location, and request prompt remediation. Keep documentation and, if no action is taken, contact your local housing authority or Magistrate Court.

Does my landlord have to provide air conditioning?

South Carolina law does not require landlords to provide air conditioning, but heating and functional ventilation must be present and maintained in good working order.

Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores ventilation issues?

You should not withhold rent unless you’ve properly followed all legal procedures: give written notice, allow time for repair, and seek legal advice or court action if unresolved.

How long does my landlord have to fix air quality or ventilation problems?

Typically, landlords must fix health or safety issues within 14 days after written notice, unless the problem poses an immediate danger, in which case repairs should be sooner.

Where can I file a complaint if my landlord won’t act?

You can file a complaint with your local housing code enforcement office and, if necessary, bring a case to Magistrate Court in your county.

South Carolina Air Quality & Ventilation: Renter Rights Explained

Health & Safety Standards South Carolina published: June 21, 2025

Living in a healthy home is essential, and air quality plays a big part in that. If you’re renting in South Carolina, understanding your rights and your landlord’s responsibilities regarding air quality and ventilation can help you maintain a comfortable, safe living environment. This guide will break down the requirements, your options if there’s a problem, and provide links to official resources—all in plain language.

Air Quality and Ventilation Standards in South Carolina Rentals

South Carolina law sets minimum health and safety standards for all residential rental units. While the state’s laws do not provide detailed air quality metrics (like mold spore counts), your landlord is required to keep your rental “fit and habitable,” which includes proper ventilation and maintaining systems affecting air quality.

What Does the Law Say?

Landlords must comply with all building and housing codes that materially affect health and safety.
They must make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition, according to the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Section 27-40-440).
Rental units should have safe heating, plumbing, and ventilation systems.

While there is no state law mandating air conditioning, appropriate ventilation (such as exhaust fans, operable windows, or other means) should be in place. If dampness or poor air circulation is leading to mold, this is usually considered a maintenance issue your landlord must address.

Common Air Quality and Ventilation Issues

Mold growth from leaks or poor ventilation
Broken exhaust fans in bathrooms or kitchens
Blocked or malfunctioning air ducts
Unsealed windows allowing outdoor pollutants in

All of these can impact your health and should be reported to your landlord as soon as you notice them.

What To Do If There’s an Air Quality or Ventilation Problem

If you suspect a problem with air quality, such as persistent mold, strange odors, or ventilation system failure, take the following steps:

Document the issue with photos or notes
Notify your landlord in writing—keep copies
Allow reasonable time for repair (usually 14 days unless it’s urgent)

If your landlord fails to act, you have rights under the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. You may be able to withhold rent, terminate your lease, or seek help through local housing authorities.

Essential Forms for Renters

Notice of Noncompliance with Rental Agreement or Code (No Form Number): Use this letter to give your landlord official notice about a health or safety issue (like poor air quality or broken ventilation). Explain the problem and give the landlord time (usually 14 days) to fix it.
Template and instructions are available from the South Carolina Bar - Renters & Tenants resource.
Complaint to Local Housing Authority or Code Enforcement (Varies by City/County): File if your landlord does not respond to requests. Check with your city or county’s housing or building department.
For example, Charleston Building Inspections.

Currently, South Carolina does not have a state-level “habitability complaint” form. Most actions are handled by local offices or by filing in Magistrate Court if the issue remains unresolved.

Who Handles Rental Disputes?

Landlord-tenant disputes in South Carolina are handled by your local Magistrate Court. This is where you can file actions if your landlord fails to make legally required repairs.

South Carolina Tenant Legislation

The rules for air quality, ventilation, and landlord obligations come from the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Focus especially on Section 27-40-440 for required maintenance and tenant remedies.

If you’re unsure what to do, consult with the South Carolina Bar or a tenant advocacy group before taking formal action.

FAQ: Air Quality & Ventilation for Renters in South Carolina

What should I do if there is visible mold in my rental? Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible, describe the mold’s location, and request prompt remediation. Keep documentation and, if no action is taken, contact your local housing authority or Magistrate Court.
Does my landlord have to provide air conditioning? South Carolina law does not require landlords to provide air conditioning, but heating and functional ventilation must be present and maintained in good working order.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores ventilation issues? You should not withhold rent unless you’ve followed all legal procedures: give written notice, allow time for repair, and seek legal advice or court action if unresolved. Withholding rent incorrectly could risk eviction.
How long does my landlord have to fix air quality or ventilation problems? Typically, landlords must fix health or safety issues within 14 days after written notice, unless the problem poses an immediate danger, in which case repairs should be sooner.
Where can I file a complaint if my landlord won’t act? You can file a complaint with your local housing code enforcement office and, if necessary, bring a case to Magistrate Court in your county.

Key Takeaways for South Carolina Renters

Your landlord must maintain safe, habitable air quality and ventilation per state law.
Document problems, notify your landlord in writing, and keep records.
If issues aren’t fixed, contact local code enforcement or your Magistrate Court for help.

Knowing your rights empowers you to make sure your rental home stays safe and healthy for you and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

South Carolina Magistrate Court Finder (use this to find your county’s court for landlord-tenant disputes)
South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Official Legislation)
South Carolina Bar – Renters and Tenants Resources
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control – Mold & Moisture Guidance