In South Carolina, what can tenants do if they believe their landlord is violating the housing code?

When tenants believe their landlord is violating the housing code in South Carolina, filing a complaint with local authorities is a proactive step they can take. This process typically involves reporting the issue to the appropriate local housing or building department, which is responsible for enforcing housing codes and ensuring compliance. By doing so, tenants can initiate an investigation into the alleged violations, leading to potential corrective actions taken by the landlord or authorities.

Ignoring the issue would not address the problem and could lead to further deterioration of living conditions. While contacting the housing authority might seem like a viable option, the direct approach of filing a complaint with local authorities is more effective in prompting an official response. Reducing rent unilaterally without following legal procedures may lead to conflicts or legal issues, as it is not a recognized remedy for code violations without proper cause or agreement from the landlord. Therefore, filing a complaint is the most appropriate and effective course of action in this situation.