Understanding rent increase laws is crucial for tenants in South Carolina to protect their rights and plan for housing costs. In 2025, South Carolina continues to have no statewide rent control law that limits how much landlords can raise rent. However, there are important rules about notice periods, lease terms, and legal protections that tenants should be aware of.
No Rent Control Limitations
South Carolina does not have rent control laws, meaning landlords can increase rent by any amount they choose. There is no legal cap restricting the percentage or dollar amount of rent hikes. This lack of rent control allows landlords to adjust rents according to market conditions without a maximum increase limit.
However, landlords must follow specific legal procedures for raising rent to be valid. Failure to comply can render the increase illegal or contested.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
One of the most important tenant protections is the requirement for proper written notice before a rent increase. The notice period depends on the type of rental agreement:
For month-to-month or week-to-week tenants, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent.
For fixed-term leases (such as a 1-year lease), landlords cannot increase rent during the lease term unless the lease explicitly allows it. Rent increases can only take effect when the lease expires, and landlords must notify tenants in advance about the new rent terms.
Written notice must clearly state the new rent amount and the date it will take effect. Verbal notices are not legally adequate, and tenants should request all communications in writing.
Lease Agreements and Rent Hikes
Tenants should carefully review their lease agreements regarding rent increases. Fixed-term leases generally lock in rent for the lease duration, preventing surprise hikes. Some leases may contain provisions allowing rent increases mid-term, but these must be explicitly stated and agreed upon.
For tenants on monthly or periodic leases, rent changes happen with notice but no lease renewal is required.
Illegal Rent Increases
While landlords can raise rent freely, certain rent increases are illegal if they involve discrimination or retaliation. Under the Fair Housing Act, rent may not be increased based on a tenant’s race, gender, religion, disability, familial status, or other protected class.
Retaliatory rent hikes are also illegal. For example, if a landlord raises rent in response to a tenant filing a complaint about unsafe living conditions or exercising tenant rights, it may be challenged as unlawful.
Proposed Rent Control Legislation
There have been legislative efforts in South Carolina to introduce rent control protections limiting rent hikes to 7% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI) annually after the first year of tenancy, along with a 90-day notice requirement. However, as of 2025, these proposals have not been enacted into law, and no statewide rent control restrictions currently apply.
Tenant Tips for Handling Rent Increases
Always review your lease agreement to understand rent increase terms and timing.
Request written notice of any rent increase in advance.
If a rent increase seems excessively high or suspiciously timed, consider negotiating with your landlord or seeking legal advice.
Report any suspected discriminatory or retaliatory rent hikes to appropriate authorities or consult a tenant rights organization.
Stay informed about any future rent control legislation or tenant protections that may impact your rental situation.
In 2025, South Carolina tenants face a landlord-friendly environment without rent caps, but with legal safeguards focused on notice and fairness. Rent increases must be communicated properly and conducted in good faith.
Tenants should be vigilant in understanding their leases and advocating for their rights, especially as legislative changes related to rent control continue to be discussed. By knowing their rights and responsibilities, tenants can better navigate rent increases and secure stable housing arrangements in South Carolina’s rental market.
Sources
(https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-south-carolina)
(https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/3346.htm)
(https://www.flagshippm.com/blog/south-carolina-rent-control-laws-how-much-can-you-raise-the-rent)
(https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/3232.htm)
(https://www.hemlane.com/resources/south-carolina-rent-control-laws/)
