S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-10
Definitions
Operative Text
The following terms whenever used or referred to in this article shall have the following respective meanings for the purposes of this article, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context: (1) "Municipality" shall mean any city or town regardless of population; (2) "Governing body" shall mean the council or other legislative body charged with governing a municipality; (3) "Public officer" shall mean the officer or officers who are authorized by ordinances adopted hereunder to exercise the powers prescribed by such ordinances and by this article; (4) "Public authority" shall mean any housing authority or any officer who is in charge of any department or branch of the government of the municipality or State relating to health, fire or building regulations or to other activities concerning dwellings in the municipality; (5) "Owner" shall mean the holder of the title in fee simple and every mortgagee of record; (6) "Parties in interest" shall mean all individuals, associations, corporations and others who have interests of record in a dwelling and any who are in possession thereof; and (7) "Dwelling" shall mean any building or structure, or part thereof, used and occupied for human habitation or intended to be so used and includes any outhouses and appurtenances belonging thereto or usually enjoyed therewith.
Section 31-15-10 of the South Carolina Code establishes the foundational vocabulary for the state's housing article, setting out precise meanings for seven key terms used throughout the chapter. These definitions determine who qualifies as an 'owner,' what counts as a 'dwelling,' and which governmental bodies and officials hold authority under the article. Because these meanings govern how every other provision in the chapter is interpreted, they shape the rights and obligations of all parties involved in regulated housing situations.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 31-15-10, the definition of 'owner' extends beyond the person holding title in fee simple to include every mortgagee of record, meaning lenders with a recorded mortgage interest may also bear responsibilities under this article. Property managers and title holders should be aware that 'dwelling' is defined broadly to encompass not just the main structure but also outhouses and appurtenances typically associated with it. Understanding these definitions helps operators correctly identify when they and their properties fall within the scope of the article's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 31-15-10 defines 'parties in interest' to include not only those with recorded legal interests in a dwelling but also anyone in possession of it, which can encompass tenants occupying a unit. This broad definition means tenants may have standing to participate in certain proceedings or actions taken under this article. Tenants who believe a provision of this chapter applies to their situation may wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization or legal aid office for guidance on how these definitions affect their circumstances.
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.
Effective Timeline
References Out
No outbound references recorded yet for this provision.
References In
No inbound references recorded yet for this provision.