South Carolina Rent Control Laws: 2025 Guide for Renters

Finding a place to live can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to understanding your rights about rent increases. If you're renting in South Carolina and are concerned about rent hikes or tenant protections, it's essential to know what laws apply in 2025. This guide covers rent control laws in South Carolina, what they mean for you, and how to find help if needed.

Is There Rent Control in South Carolina?

Currently, South Carolina does not have any state or local rent control laws. This means that landlords in South Carolina are allowed to raise rent by any amount, at any time, as long as they give proper notice and are not discriminating or retaliating against tenants. Local governments in the state are also prohibited from establishing their own rent control rules.

• Landlords must provide written notice of a rent increase for month-to-month tenants at least 30 days before the increase goes into effect.
• There are no legal caps on how high rent can be raised.
• Rent increases cannot be made as a form of retaliation or discrimination.

These rules are set out in the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

What Rights Do Renters Have Regarding Rent Increases?

Although there is no rent control, tenants do have the right to fair notice before a rent increase. The required notice periods (outlined below) ensure renters have time to respond or make other plans if a rent becomes unaffordable.

• Month-to-month leases: 30 days' written notice is required for any rent increase.
  
• Fixed-term leases (like 1-year agreements): Rent usually cannot be increased until the lease term ends, unless the lease specifically allows for increases during that term.
• All rental agreements: Rules apply equally, and increases cannot be enacted to discriminate or punish renters.

How Is Rent Increase Notice Given?

The notice must be in writing. It may be delivered in person or mailed to your address. If you receive a rent increase notice and are unsure if it's legal or properly delivered, consider contacting the Office of the South Carolina Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for guidance (official website).

Are There Any Official Rent Control or Tenant Protection Forms?

South Carolina does not have designated state-level rent control or rent increase appeal forms because rent control is not in effect. However, there are some forms renters may need in related situations:

• Complaint Form: South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)
  Consumer Complaint Form
  When and how to use it: If you believe your landlord is violating the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (for example, by retaliating or not providing required notice for a rent increase), you can submit this form online or by mail. For instance, if your landlord attempts to raise your rent without notice as retaliation for a repair request, you could file a complaint with the DCA.

Main Housing Law and Tribunal for Renters

• South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: The core law covering tenant rights and rent increase notice requirements.
  Link: Read the official Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Magistrate Court: Handles disputes between landlords and tenants (including eviction and notice issues), and is the official court for landlord-tenant matters.
  Link: Find your Magistrate Court

Most routine disputes related to rental notices or disagreements are handled at the county Magistrate Court level.

What Happens If You Can't Afford a Rent Increase?

If you can't pay the higher rent, you have options. Make sure you understand the notice periods and your current lease. You may:

• Negotiate with your landlord for a smaller increase or extensions.
• Give written notice (usually 30 days) before moving out if you can't agree on new terms.
• Contact local rental assistance programs or tenant resource services for support.

FAQs: Rent Control and Rent Increases in South Carolina

1. Does South Carolina have rent control?
   No, there are no rent control laws or local rent stabilization programs in South Carolina. Landlords can set rents as they choose, provided they follow notice requirements.
2. How much can my landlord increase my rent?
   There is no limit, but your landlord must give at least 30 days' written notice for month-to-month rentals. Fixed-term lease increases can only occur as allowed by your agreement.
3. How do I respond to an unfair rent increase?
   First, review your lease to check if the increase is allowed. If you suspect retaliation or discrimination, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs or seek legal advice from a free legal aid organization.
4. What should I do if I can't afford the new rent?
   Try to negotiate with your landlord, give proper notice if you decide to leave, or seek help from rental assistance resources. Don't stop paying rent unless you've made a new agreement in writing.
5. Who handles rental disputes in South Carolina?
   The Magistrate Court in your county addresses most landlord-tenant disputes, including notice and eviction matters. Locate your local Magistrate Court here.

Key Takeaways for South Carolina Renters

• South Carolina does not have rent control or rent caps.
• Your landlord must provide proper written notice before raising rent.
• Disputes over rent or notices are handled by your Magistrate Court.
• If you feel your rights are being violated, official complaint forms and tenant resources are available to help.

Stay informed about your rights and always ask for written communication regarding any changes to your rental agreement.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Official Legislation)
• South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs: File a Complaint
• South Carolina Magistrate Courts: Find Your Local Court
• South Carolina Legal Services: Free Tenant Advice
• Dial 2-1-1 for local housing and rental assistance programs

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1. South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-10 et seq. View legislation
2. Magistrate Court landlord-tenant process: Find your Magistrate Court

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