Understanding Tenant Rights in South Carolina: A Real-Life Scenario

The Importance of Knowing Your Rights

Are you a tenant and feel like something is shady with your landlord or property manager? Here is a real-life scenario of SC tenant rights being infringed.

Earlier this month, I received a phone call from someone who stated that they received an eviction notice from their landlord! This situation raised immediate red flags for me.

By law, there are three grounds for ejectment:

1. The tenant fails or refuses to pay the rent when it is due or when demanded in the amount of $___.

2. The term of tenancy or occupancy has ended.

3. The terms or conditions of the lease have been violated as follows: ___.

   
   

In this case, the landlord checked number 2 on their notice to the tenant.

A Closer Look at the Situation

During my phone call with the tenant, I discovered that the landlord was simply trying to get the tenant to leave so they could sell the house. The eviction notice was sent to incite fear in the tenant. Luckily, they reached out to me, and I helped them understand the rights that they have.

I had them confirm the following information:

1. They had a formal lease agreement.

2. They received/signed a lease extension.

3. They’ve never been late or missed any rent payments.

   
   

Building a Strong Case

To further build the tenant's case for the court hearing, I utilized the county public records to get a timeline of the landlord’s divorce and a copy of the deed of sale. This was crucial information because the landlord claimed that her ex-husband did not have the right to extend the lease since he sold her the home.

During the court hearing, the judge demanded that the landlord honor the addendum to extend the lease agreement, which was a win for the tenant! The landlord even attempted, in front of the judge, to increase the rent for the tenant, and it was denied! Like I told my client, tenants really have more rights than it may seem!

Why You Should Reach Out to a Realtor

The purpose of sharing this real-life scenario is to highlight:

• How tricky private landlords can be.

• The importance of knowing your tenant rights.

• The importance of reaching out to a realtor like myself.

  
  

Representation matters beyond when you’re ready to purchase or sell property, but it’s just as important when leasing!

Conclusion: Take Action!

If you’re looking to buy, sell, lease, or develop property in 2025, contact me at 803-524-0027! Don't wait until you're in a tough spot. Knowing your rights can make all the difference. Let's work together to ensure you're protected and informed every step of the way!

In the world of real estate, knowledge is power. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a tenant facing challenges, understanding your rights and options is crucial. So, remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out, ask questions, and let’s navigate this together!