South Carolina Utilities Setup Checklist for Renters

Moving into a new rental in South Carolina is exciting, but making sure your utilities are ready is just as important as unpacking your boxes. For renters, knowing which utilities you need to set up, your legal rights regarding utility disclosures, and the proper forms to use can help you avoid surprises and start your tenancy on the right foot. This guide provides a step-by-step checklist and answers to common questions, backed by official South Carolina government resources.

Which Utilities Are Most Common for SC Renters?

When renting in South Carolina, here are the typical utilities you may be responsible for:

• Electricity (e.g., Dominion Energy, Duke Energy)
• Water and Sewer (local city or county utility departments)
• Natural Gas (if available in your area)
• Trash and recycling service
• Internet and cable/satellite

Always check your lease to confirm which utilities are included in the rent and which are your responsibility. South Carolina does not require landlords to pay for any specific utilities unless specified in your rental agreement.¹

Legal Rights: Utility Disclosures and Move-In Inspections

South Carolina law requires landlords to disclose, in your rental agreement, which utilities you must pay.² The South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act ensures you are informed about utility arrangements before you sign.

Move-In Condition Checklist

Landlords aren't required by law to provide an official move-in inspection form, but using one helps document the property’s condition when you move in—especially in relation to appliances and fixtures tied to utilities (like water heaters or HVAC units).

• South Carolina Residential Rental Inspection Checklist: While there is no state-issued form, many local housing authorities, like Charleston Housing Authority, provide sample checklists. Fill one out and keep a copy for your records.

Bring up any broken or non-functioning utility-related fixtures before moving in.

Step-by-Step Utilities Setup Checklist

Here's a simple checklist for setting up your utilities in a new South Carolina rental:

• Read your lease for info on which utilities you must set up and pay.
• Get contact info for local utility providers (ask your landlord or search on your city/county website).
• Call or go online to set up each account before move-in day; be prepared to provide ID, your address, and sometimes a lease copy.
• Ask your landlord if any utilities need to remain in their name temporarily, and clarify dates for switchover.
• Arrange for services that may require on-site installation (e.g., internet, cable, or gas connection).
• Take photos and keep records of meter readings on move-in day; this helps prevent future disputes over usage.
• If applicable, complete a move-in condition checklist—paying attention to plumbing, wiring, and appliances.

Required Forms and Where to Find Them

• Sample Utility Agreement Addendum: Some landlords or property managers may use their own utility addendum forms to clarify arrangements. Ask for a copy if this applies to your rental. Sample templates may be available from your city or local housing authority, but always ensure any agreements are written and discussed before signing your lease.
• Inspection Checklist: Use a template such as the Charleston Rental Inspection Checklist (PDF). While not mandatory, this form documents the property’s move-in condition and helps ensure utilities like plumbing and electrical systems are working.

If you experience unsafe living conditions or your landlord fails to provide essential utilities they are required to maintain, you can contact the South Carolina Residential Builders Commission or file a complaint with your city or county housing code office.

Tip: Always get all utility arrangements spelled out in writing before signing your lease. This protects you from unexpected bills or disputes during your tenancy.

What If There’s a Utility Dispute?

If your landlord shuts off utilities that you're entitled to under your lease, or you’re facing an interruption not due to your own actions, you can take action. The official body handling rental disputes in South Carolina is the local Magistrate Court. This small claims tribunal can address disputes under the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.³

FAQ: South Carolina Utility Setup and Tenant Rights

1. Who is responsible for paying utility bills? Usually, the responsibility is outlined in your rental agreement. If the lease says you pay, it's your duty to set up and pay utilities. If the landlord provides them, the lease should say so.
2. Can my landlord control my utility accounts? Landlords can only control utility accounts if they have agreed in the lease to pay for and manage them. Renters have the right to set up utility accounts for services they are responsible for paying.
3. What should I do if the power or water is not on at move-in? First, check your lease. If the landlord was supposed to have utilities running, contact them immediately. If you’re responsible, check with the utility company and set up your account. Keep records of all communications.
4. Are there state assistance programs for utility setup? Yes, renters with low income may be eligible for help through programs such as LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program).
5. How do I document move-in utility conditions? Use a condition checklist, take photographs, and note meter readings at move-in. Keep this documentation in case of future disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full text of the state's landlord-tenant law
• South Carolina Residential Builders Commission – For complaints about unsafe housing or code issues
• South Carolina Magistrate Court – Handles disputes and small claims regarding rentals
• SC LIHEAP Utility Assistance – Utility bill help for eligible renters
• Charleston Rental Inspection Checklist – Sample property checklist

---

1. See South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 27-40-420 for disclosure requirements.
2. Per S.C. Code § 27-40-420, utility responsibilities must be stated in the lease.
3. Disputes may be brought to your local Magistrate Court.

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations