South Carolina Rent Control Laws: Local Rent Caps Explained

If you're renting in South Carolina, you may be concerned about how much your landlord can increase the rent and whether any city-level ordinances limit rent hikes. Understanding rent control, local rent caps, and your legal protections as a tenant is essential for planning your housing costs and knowing your rights when facing issues like rent increases or eviction.

Rent Control and Rent Caps in South Carolina: What Renters Should Know

Across the United States, some states or cities have "rent control"—laws that restrict how much landlords can increase the rent each year. However, in South Carolina, the rules are different. There are currently no rent control laws or local rent cap ordinances in any South Carolina city, including Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and others.^[1]

What Does This Mean for Renters?

• Landlords in South Carolina can generally set rent at market rates and increase it, as long as they provide proper notice.
• Rent increases are not capped by state or local law for most residential tenancies.
• Protections do exist for tenants regarding notice requirements and fair housing laws.

If you receive a notice of rent increase, it's natural to wonder if your city has special renter protections. As of this year, South Carolina Code Title 27, Chapter 40 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is the law that governs most rental arrangements in the state, not local rent boards or city-specific laws.^[2]

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Even though South Carolina doesn't have rent caps, your landlord must provide advance written notice before increasing rent:

• Month-to-month lease: Landlord must give at least 30 days' written notice before a rent increase can take effect.
• Fixed-term lease: Rent usually cannot be increased during the term of the lease unless the lease says otherwise. Once the lease ends, new rent terms can be set with proper notice for any renewal.

For more on required notices, see the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Section 27-40-770).

How to Respond to an Unfair or Sudden Rent Increase

• Double-check that you've received proper written notice and that your lease allows for a rent increase at this time.
• If you believe the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory (for example, if you recently requested repairs), you can file a complaint.
• Know your rights: While South Carolina law does not set rent caps, it does prohibit certain types of landlord retaliation and discrimination.

How to File a Complaint or Take Action as a Renter

While there is no state rent board, the magistrate court in your county handles most landlord-tenant disputes, including eviction cases or disputes over lease terms.

What Official Forms Are Available?

• Notice to Remedy or Quit (SCCA/763): Used by landlords to notify tenants of violations. Renters may also use this form to understand the official process. Download Notice to Remedy or Quit (Form SCCA/763). Example: If your landlord claims you haven’t paid rent or violated the lease, they may serve you this notice. As a renter, you should respond promptly or seek legal help.
• Summons and Complaint (Eviction Proceedings: SCCA/734, SCCA/736): Used by landlords to initiate eviction, but as a renter, you must respond if served. Find the Summons Form (SCCA/734). Responding is your legal right and responsibility.

Forms are available through the South Carolina Judicial Department – Magistrate Court Forms.

Where to Go for Dispute Resolution

• Residential tenancy disputes, including rent or eviction issues, are handled by county Magistrate Courts.
• Find your local court on the South Carolina Magistrate Court Locator.

1. Are there any cities in South Carolina that cap or control rent?
   No, as of this year, South Carolina does not have any rent control or rent cap ordinances in its cities. Rent is set by landlords, but proper notice is required for any increase.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising my rent?
   For month-to-month leases, the landlord must give at least 30 days' advance written notice before a rent increase takes effect. Fixed-term lease increases depend on your contract.
3. What can I do if I believe my rent was raised in retaliation for requesting repairs?
   South Carolina law protects against landlord retaliation. Contact your local magistrate court or file a complaint if you suspect retaliation.
4. Where do I go for help resolving a dispute about rent increases or eviction?
   Residential tenancy disputes are handled by your county’s Magistrate Court. Use the official court locator to find yours.
5. Do I need a specific form to object to a rent increase?
   There is no official government form in South Carolina to dispute a rent increase directly. However, renters may respond in writing to their landlord or seek help from the magistrate court if they believe the increase violates the law or lease.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Carolina Magistrate Courts Locator – For dispute resolution and eviction matters
• Official Court Forms for Landlord-Tenant (SC Judicial Dept.)
• South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Official State Law)
• South Carolina Legal Services – Free or reduced-cost legal help for qualifying renters

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1. No S.C. statute or municipal ordinance provides for rent control or local caps on residential rent increases as of 2024.
2. See South Carolina Code Title 27, Chapter 40 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

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