Do Landlords Have to Pay for Pest Control in South Carolina?

I’m thinking about investing in property—do landlords have to pay for pest control in South Carolina?

A landlord must pay for pest control if there is an infestation in the building that was not caused by the tenant. If there were pest problems in the building before a tenant moved in, then the landlord is responsible. Pests could have entered through property damage, structural weaknesses, or spread from unit to unit.

The South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is a law that protects landlords and tenants. The law does not specifically assign pest control bills to the landlord. It requires landlords to comply with applicable housing codes, complete necessary repairs, and keep properties safe for tenants. This includes addressing serious infestations involving cockroaches, rodents, bed bugs, or other pests. 

Tenants are also required to keep their living space clean, dispose of waste safely, and avoid damaging the property. If a tenant has purposefully or negligently caused pest problems, then they are responsible for pest control services. 

Tenants should report pest issues to their landlord in writing, including photographs and the date of discovery. South Carolina law provides a process for tenants to give written notice to landlords, allowing at least 14 days to resolve the problem.

Tenants should not automatically deduct extermination costs from their rent or stop paying rent. Withholding rent can put a tenancy at risk. If responsibility for a pest issue is disputed, both the landlord and tenant can contact a local housing authority or a lawyer.