South Carolina § 27-40-530 - Access.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 27-40-530 — Access., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 27-40-530. Access.
(a) A tenant shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the landlord to enter into the dwelling unit in order to inspect the premises, make necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements, supply necessary or agreed services, or exhibit the dwelling unit to prospective or actual purchasers, mortgagees, tenants, workmen, or contractors.
(b) A landlord or his agent may enter the dwelling unit without consent of the tenant:
(1) At any time in case of emergency—prospective changes in weather conditions which pose a likelihood of danger to the property may be considered an emergency;
(2) Between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of providing regularly scheduled periodic services such as changing furnace and air-conditioning filters, providing termite, insect, or pest treatment, and the like, provided that the right to enter to provide regularly scheduled periodic services is conspicuously set forth in writing in the rental agreement and that prior to entering, the landlord announces his intent to enter to perform services; or
(3) Between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. for the purpose of providing services requested by the tenant and that prior to entering, the landlord announces his intent to enter to perform services.
(c) A landlord shall not abuse the right of access or use it to harass the tenant. Except in cases under item (b) above, the landlord shall give the tenant at least twenty-four hours notice of his intent to enter and may enter only at reasonable times.
(d) A landlord has no other right of access except:
(1) pursuant to court order;
(2) as permitted by SECTIONS 27-40-720 and 27-40-730;
(3) when accompanied by a law enforcement officer at reasonable times for the purpose of service of process in ejectment proceedings; or
(4) unless the tenant has abandoned or surrendered the premises.
(e) A tenant shall not change locks on the dwelling unit without the permission of the landlord.
HISTORY: 1986 Act No. 336, SECTION 1; 1995 Act No. 112, SECTION 4.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 27-40-530
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 27-40-530 cover?
Section 27-40-530 ("Access.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 27-40-530?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 27-40-530" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 27-40-530 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.