S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-80
Provisions in ordinances with respect to powers of public officer
Operative Text
An ordinance adopted by the governing body of a municipality may authorize a public officer to exercise such powers as may be necessary or convenient to carry out and effectuate the purposes and provisions of this article, including the following powers in addition to others herein granted: (1) To investigate the dwelling conditions in the municipality in order to determine which dwellings therein are unfit for human habitation; (2) To administer oaths and affirmations, examine witnesses and receive evidence; (3) To enter upon premises for the purpose of making examinations, provided such entries be made in such manner as to cause the least possible inconvenience to the persons in possession; (4) To appoint and fix the duties of such officers, agents and employees as he deems necessary to carry out the purposes of the ordinances; and (5) To delegate any of his functions and powers under the ordinances to such officers and agents as he may designate.
Section 31-15-80 of the South Carolina Code establishes the range of powers that a municipal ordinance may grant to a designated public officer responsible for addressing unfit dwellings. These powers include investigating housing conditions, administering oaths, entering properties to conduct inspections (with minimal disruption to occupants), and delegating duties to staff. The provision is enabling in nature, meaning it sets the outer boundary of authority a local government may confer—it does not itself mandate any specific action.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-80, a public officer authorized by local ordinance may enter rental properties to inspect dwelling conditions and determine whether a unit is unfit for human habitation. Compliant property operators generally maintain their units in a condition that meets local habitability standards, keep records of maintenance, and cooperate with authorized inspections conducted in accordance with the least-inconvenience standard the statute requires. Being aware of the scope of the public officer's delegated authority—including the ability to appoint agents and staff—helps operators understand who may lawfully conduct such inspections.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 31-15-80 of the South Carolina Code gives municipalities the legal foundation to empower a public officer to investigate whether dwellings are unfit for human habitation, which can be a resource for tenants living in substandard conditions. The provision requires that any property entry for inspection be conducted in a manner causing the least possible inconvenience to occupants, which is a protection built into the statute itself. Tenants who believe their dwelling may be unfit can look into whether their municipality has adopted an ordinance under this article and what local complaint or inspection processes may be available through their municipal housing or code enforcement office.
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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