South Carolina is considering new rent control legislation, notably the “South Carolina Rent Control Act” (Bill 3346), which would significantly change how and when landlords can increase rent. While statewide rent control was not previously in effect, the 2025 legislative session has seen new proposals that, if enacted, will impact both tenants and landlords.
Current and Proposed Rent Increase Rules
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Increase Limits | Frequency/Other Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week-to-week | 7 days written notice | No specific cap, but must give notice | Can only increase at end of weekly cycle |
| Month-to-month | 30 days written notice | Up to 7% + CPI (max 12% in 2025) | Only once per 12 months |
| Fixed-term (annual) | 90 days after 1st year | Up to 7% + CPI (max 12% in 2025) | Only at end of lease term unless lease allows |
Details of the 2025 Rent Control Act (Bill 3346)
- Notice Requirements:
- Week-to-week:Â 7 days written notice before a rent increase.
- Other tenancies:Â No rent increase in the first year. After the first year, landlords must give at least 90 days’ written notice before increasing rent.
- Rent Increase Cap:
- Landlords cannot raise rent by more than 7% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI) over the existing rent in any 12-month period (for 2025, this totals a maximum of 12%).
- If a landlord seeks to increase rent beyond this cap, they must provide documentation for an exemption as outlined in the law.
- Frequency:Â Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
- Notice Content:Â The notice must specify the amount of the increase, the new rent, and any facts supporting an exemption if applicable.
- Penalties:Â If a landlord exceeds the legal limit, tenants may sue for up to three times the excess rent charged, plus damages and legal fees.
Other Important Tenant Protections
- No Mid-Lease Increases:Â Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless the lease specifically allows it.
- No Retaliatory or Discriminatory Increases:Â Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation for tenants exercising legal rights (such as filing complaints) or in a discriminatory manner.
- Local Ordinances:Â While South Carolina generally preempts local rent control, some municipalities (e.g., Columbia) may have their own additional protections or caps.
What Tenants Should Do
- Review Lease Agreements:Â Always check your lease for any clauses about rent increases.
- Expect Written Notice:Â Landlords must provide written notice within the required time frame before any increase takes effect.
- Know Your Rights:Â If you receive a rent increase above the legal limit or without proper notice, you may have grounds to challenge it or seek legal remedies.
- Document Communication:Â Keep copies of all notices and correspondence with your landlord regarding rent changes.
In 2025, South Carolina is moving toward stricter regulation of rent increases, with proposed laws capping annual increases at 7% plus CPI (up to 12% this year), requiring substantial notice, and protecting tenants from excessive or retaliatory hikes. Tenants should stay informed, review all notices carefully, and seek assistance if they believe their rights have been violated.
Sources
[1] https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/3346.htm
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/south-carolina-rental-lease-agreement-laws-regulations
[3] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/south-carolina-rent-control-laws/
[4] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-south-carolina
[5] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-south-carolina