Are tenants responsible for repairs to the rental property?

Yes, tenants are responsible for repairs to the rental property in South Carolina. Under state law, a tenant is always responsible for keeping the rental property in good condition, free from damage that occurred during the tenant’s period of rental. This includes making necessary repairs, as well as returning the property to its original condition when the tenant moves out. To mitigate the risk of damage, landlords can request a security deposit from the tenant. This deposit is used to cover any damage to the property if the tenant does not fulfill his or her repair obligations. Typically, the amount of the deposit cannot exceed half the monthly rent, and it should be returned to the tenant minus any repairs once they have moved out. The landlord is ultimately responsible for the repair of major damage to the rental property that goes beyond normal wear and tear. This includes any damage that occurred before the tenant moved in, as well as damage caused by the landlord’s failure to maintain the property as required by law. Landlords must also make any repairs requested by the tenant within a reasonable time frame. If the tenant has consulted with a licensed contractor about a repair and provided a copy of the invoice, the landlord is required to pay for the cost of the repair.

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