South Carolina Pet Rent: Rules, Fees, and Deposit Caps for Renters

Renters in South Carolina with pets often have questions about additional costs—especially when it comes to monthly pet rent or deposits. Understanding your rights as a tenant is important to avoid surprises and know what’s allowed under state law. This guide explains South Carolina’s rules on landlord charges related to pets, including pet rent, security deposits, and how to address disputes.

Pet Rent and Pet Fees in South Carolina

In South Carolina, state law does not specifically regulate or cap the amount a landlord may charge for pet rent or pet-related fees. This means a landlord can include monthly pet rent or a one-time non-refundable pet fee in your lease, as long as it’s clearly stated in your rental agreement.

• Pet Rent: Monthly charge added to your rent for allowing pets.
• Pet Fee: One-time, usually non-refundable charge for having a pet.
• Pet Deposit: Refundable amount held as part of your security deposit to cover possible pet damage.

There are no statewide caps or maximums on any of these charges, so the terms will depend on your lease and your negotiations with the landlord.^[1]

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Landlords in South Carolina cannot charge pet rent, pet fees, or deposits for assistance animals (including certified service animals and emotional support animals) under federal laws like the Fair Housing Act. However, renters remain responsible for any actual damage caused by the animal.^[2]

Security Deposits and Pet-Related Charges

South Carolina rental law allows landlords to collect a security deposit to cover unpaid rent and damages, including those from pets. The law does not set a statewide maximum on deposit amounts for standard or pet-related deposits.^[1]

• Security deposits must be returned within 30 days after you move out, minus any deductions for unpaid rent or damages.

What Must Be in Your Lease?

Any pet rent, pet fee, or pet deposit must be listed in your written lease. Always review the lease before signing—it should clearly outline:

• The amount and type of each pet-related charge
• Whether fees are refundable or non-refundable
• Pet restrictions by type, size, or breed

What to Do If You Disagree With a Pet Fee or Charge

If you feel a pet charge was not agreed upon, or you believe you’ve been charged in violation of your rights (such as for a service animal), you can:

• Speak with your landlord to clarify or negotiate the fee.
• Check your lease for the exact fee details.
• Submit a written complaint to the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs for further help.
• If the dispute isn't resolved, consider seeking help or mediation through the local magistrate court (which handles residential landlord-tenant disputes).

Relevant Forms and Practical Example

• South Carolina Notice of Damages (Sample Notice Required Under S.C. Code § 27-40-410): Used by landlords to itemize deductions from a security deposit, including pet damages.
  Example: If your landlord claims your pet caused damage beyond normal wear and tear, they must send this written notice within 30 days of your move-out, listing deductions.
  View South Carolina Notice of Damages requirement
• South Carolina Standard Residential Lease Agreement: No official state-issued form, but you can see typical contents and recommendations via the Department of Consumer Affairs.
  Download Tenant-Landlord Booklet

Always get agreements in writing and keep a copy of your lease that clearly shows all pet-related fees.

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

In South Carolina, landlord-tenant issues, including disputes over pet rent, fees, or deposits, are handled by the Magistrates Court. You can file a claim to resolve disagreements if informal discussions do not help.

Relevant State Law

The primary legislation regulating leases, security deposits, and landlord-tenant relationships in South Carolina is the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40).^[1]

FAQs for South Carolina Renters About Pet Rent and Fees

1. Can a landlord in South Carolina charge both a pet deposit and monthly pet rent?
   Yes. State law does not prohibit landlords from charging both a refundable pet deposit and monthly pet rent, as long as each is specified in your lease.
2. Are there any limits on how much pet rent or pet deposit a landlord can ask for?
   No, South Carolina does not set limits or caps on pet rent or pet deposits. The amount must be disclosed in your lease agreement.
3. Can a landlord charge for a service animal or emotional support animal?
   No. Under federal law, landlords cannot charge pet rent, deposits, or fees for service animals or approved emotional support animals.
4. What should I do if I think I’ve been unfairly charged for a pet fee?
   First, review your lease and discuss the fee with your landlord. If unresolved, you may bring your concern to the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs or magistrate court.
5. Does pet rent count toward my security deposit?
   No. Monthly pet rent is a separate charge from your security deposit or pet deposit, and is not refundable when you move out.

Key Takeaways for South Carolina Renters with Pets

• Landlords can charge pet rent, fees, or deposits unless the animal is a service or support animal.
• There are no statewide caps, but all charges must be fully disclosed in your lease.
• If you believe you’ve been wrongfully charged, you have the right to dispute it through official channels.

Being aware of your rights and responsibilities regarding pet rent and fees can make your renting experience smoother and more predictable.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs: Rental Resource Page – General information on renting and your rights
• South Carolina Magistrates Court – Handles landlord-tenant disputes in your local area
• South Carolina Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help to eligible renters
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – South Carolina – Information about fair housing and discrimination complaints

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1. South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40)
2. HUD: Reasonable Accommodations for Assistance Animals

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