Hilton Head Island is a barrier island and part of South Carolina in the southeastern United States. It's also called Lowcountry because it's only a few feet above sea level and has 12 miles of coastline. It's famous for its blue flag beaches, golfing, beautiful natural scenery, and luxurious resorts. Hilton Head Island has a year-round population of close to 40,000 people but gets over 200,00 visitors in the summer and over a million visitors every year.
The majority of the population own their homes, while a small percentage rent. The average housing price in Hilton Head Island is in the upper $500K to $600K range. Single-family homes make up at least half of the property type, and small and large apartments make up the rest.
Oceanfront homes, condos and villas range in price and can go for millions. Their price depends on the location, how old the property is, the size, and the view from the property. Hilton Head Island also has increased rental demand and a large selection of properties for rent.
This article will be a quick read of information for those looking for their first place to rent or who want to refresh their knowledge on landlord rules. Below are some things that tenants should keep in mind. Some may seem obvious, but it never hurts to be prepared. The eleven topics we'll cover below include security deposits, late fees, repairs and maintenance, tenant's liability, pets, noise, smoking, parking, social events, garbage, and notice of termination.
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1. Security Deposit
The landlord can decide the amount for a security deposit. It is the landlord's responsibility to return the security deposit within 30 days of the tenant moving out.
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2. Late Fees or Overdue Rent
Paying your rent on time should be a top priority for any tenant living in Hilton Head Island. If the rent is overdue, the landlord will give a 5-day notice. If the tenant refuses to pay, the landlord can file for eviction. Setting up a direct-deposit account allows the landlord to take money directly from that account each month without fail.
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3. Repairs and Maintenance
When you move in, you'll likely find things that need repair or maintenance. The landlord is responsible for getting these things done. It is the tenant's responsibility to notify the landlord of any repairs. The landlord has 14 days to comply. If it isn't in a reasonable amount of time, you may be able to deduct from your rent the amount of what it would have cost to have the problem fixed.
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4. Tenant's Liability
The tenant is responsible and liable for any injury, accident, or loss of personal belongings on the property. The tenant is also liable for any damage to the property.
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5. Pets
Pets are not allowed unless specified in the rental agreement. Pet fees can apply. If a tenant violates this policy, the landlord reserves the right to take action. It could be in the form of a fine or termination of the rental agreement.
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6. Noise
Most landlords have a noise policy to maintain peace and not disturb the neighbors. Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 8 am.
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7. Smoking
No smoking is permitted anywhere on the property. There are no exceptions. If violated, there can be fines.
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8. Parking
Parking is limited to a specific amount of vehicles and only in designated spots. Guests are to abide by visitor parking rules.
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9. Social Events
The rental property used other than for residential use is prohibited. Social events or parties that exceed the maximum number of people allowed require approval by the landlord in advance.
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10. Garbage
All garbage, including recycling, should be stowed away properly, and the property to be kept clean.
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11. Notice of termination
The landlord must receive a 30-day notice of termination for a month-to-month lease. The landlord, in turn, needs to give the tenant a seven-day notice to vacate the property for a weekly tenant and a 30-day notice to vacate the property for a monthly tenant.
Hilton Head Island is landlord-friendly. When renting in Hilton head Island, no matter what kind of property you're looking at, there will be differing terms in the rental agreement. It is a legally binding document between the tenant and the landlord. It covers the most important aspects of renting, including landlord rules, which are the responsibility of the tenant to follow.
