S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-220
Obligation of good faith
Operative Text
Every duty under this chapter and every act which must be performed as a condition precedent to the exercise of a right or remedy under this chapter imposes an obligation of good faith in its performances or enforcement.
Section 27-40-220 of South Carolina's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act establishes that every duty and every condition required before exercising a right or remedy under the chapter must be carried out in good faith. This means that neither party may act dishonestly, in bad faith, or with an improper motive when fulfilling obligations or pursuing remedies under the law. The rule applies broadly to all duties and conditions throughout the chapter, not just specific transactions.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-220, property owners and managers are generally expected to act honestly and in good faith whenever they perform duties or exercise remedies under South Carolina's landlord-tenant law. Compliant operators typically document their actions, apply policies consistently, and avoid pretextual or retaliatory conduct when, for example, issuing notices, entering units, or pursuing lease enforcement. Demonstrating a good-faith basis for decisions made under the chapter is a hallmark of sound property management practice in South Carolina.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 27-40-220 provides tenants with a baseline protection: every duty and condition under South Carolina's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act must be performed in good faith by all parties, including landlords. If a landlord appears to be acting dishonestly or in bad faith when enforcing a lease term or exercising a remedy, a tenant may be able to raise the absence of good faith as a defense in a legal proceeding. Tenants who believe this obligation has been violated may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider familiar with South Carolina housing law to understand available options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 16, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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