Florence County, SC Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)

Sec. 21-17 applies this code to all residential and nonresidential structures, though family-farm dwellings and barns are exempt unless law enforcement reports repeat illicit activity. Sec. 21-146 makes the owner of the premises responsible for keeping structures in compliance and bars occupying, or letting another person occupy, premises that are unsafe or noncompliant; vacant structures must still be kept safe and secure so they do not become a blighting problem. Sec. 21-147 requires the exterior, including walls, roofs, doors, window frames, porches, decks and fences, to stay structurally sound, with foundation walls free of open cracks that let in rodents and pests, and overhangs, canopies, fire escapes, and handrails properly anchored and maintained.

Sec. 21-148 imposes the parallel interior standard: structural members, stairs, ramps, landings and handrails must remain sound and capable of supporting normal loads. The code's definitions section describes 'letting for occupancy' as providing possession of a dwelling under a lease or agreement, tying these standards directly to landlords. Enforcement is complaint-driven: the code official acts under Sec. 21-50 only on a written complaint, may inspect under Sec. 21-52 and 21-53, and must serve a notice under Sec. 21-73 through 21-76 describing the violation and a correction deadline. Owners can request an optional abatement agreement under Sec. 21-78 giving up to six months to correct a violation, plus one additional six-month extension.