S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-20
Repairing, closing, or demolishing unfit dwellings
Operative Text
Whenever any municipality of this State finds that there exist in such municipality dwellings which are unfit for human habitation due to (a) dilapidation, (b) defects increasing the hazards of fire, accidents or other calamities, (c) lack of ventilation, light or sanitary facilities or (d) other conditions rendering such dwellings unsafe or insanitary, dangerous or detrimental to the health, safety or morals or otherwise inimical to the welfare of the residents of such municipality, such municipality may exercise its police powers to repair, close or demolish any such dwelling in the manner herein provided.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-20, South Carolina municipalities are granted authority to act against residential dwellings that are deemed unfit for human habitation. Conditions that can trigger this authority include physical deterioration, fire or safety hazards, inadequate ventilation or sanitation, and other circumstances that threaten the health, safety, or welfare of community residents. When such conditions are found, the municipality may use its police powers to require repairs, order the dwelling closed, or arrange for its demolition.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners operating within South Carolina municipalities should be aware that S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-20 gives local governments broad authority to intervene when a dwelling is found to be unfit for habitation. Compliant operators generally maintain their properties free of dilapidation, fire hazards, and sanitation deficiencies that could draw municipal scrutiny. Keeping up with routine inspections, addressing structural or safety deficiencies promptly, and maintaining adequate ventilation and sanitary facilities are the kinds of practices associated with properties that remain in good standing under this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-20 establishes that tenants living in South Carolina municipalities have the backdrop of local government authority to address dwellings that are unsafe, unsanitary, or otherwise unfit for habitation. If a tenant believes their dwelling suffers from serious dilapidation, fire hazards, or lack of basic sanitary facilities, one general path is to report those conditions to the local municipal authority, which holds the power to compel repairs, closure, or demolition. Tenants may also wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization to understand what additional remedies or protections may be available alongside this provision.
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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