S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-320
Repairing, closing, or demolishing unfit dwellings
Operative Text
Whenever the governing body of any county of this State finds that there exist in the county 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 the county, such county may, upon the approval of a majority of the resident members of the county legislative delegation which the members represent, exercise its police powers to repair, close or demolish any such dwelling.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-320, a South Carolina county government has the authority to take action against residential dwellings that are deemed unfit for human habitation. Qualifying conditions include physical deterioration, fire or accident hazards, inadequate ventilation or sanitation, and other circumstances that threaten the health, safety, or welfare of county residents. Before exercising this power, the county must obtain approval from a majority of the resident members of the relevant county legislative delegation, after which the county may repair, close, or demolish the affected structure.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers in South Carolina should be aware that S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-320 grants county governments broad authority to intervene when a dwelling is found unfit for human habitation. Compliant operators generally maintain their properties free of dilapidation, fire hazards, and sanitation deficiencies to avoid triggering the county's police powers under this provision. When a county identifies a property as potentially unfit, it may pursue remedies ranging from mandated repairs to full demolition, making proactive maintenance a central part of responsible property management.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-320 provides a legal framework through which county governments can act on dwellings that pose health, safety, or sanitation risks to residents. Tenants who believe their dwelling may qualify as unfit under this provision — due to conditions such as dilapidation, fire hazards, or lack of adequate ventilation or sanitation — may consider reporting those conditions to their county government or a local housing authority. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand what options may be available, including how county enforcement processes under this provision might intersect with other tenant protections.
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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