Landlord Insurance in South Carolina: What You Actually Need to Protect Your Rental in 2025

Whether you’re renting out a beach condo in Myrtle Beach, a duplex in Charleston, or student housing in Columbia—if you’re a landlord in South Carolina, you need real protection.

Landlord insurance in South Carolina covers you when the unexpected happens—hurricane damage, tenant lawsuits, or major property repairs. This guide gives you the facts on coverage, costs, and why skipping this policy could cost you big.

Why Landlord Insurance in South Carolina Is a Must

South Carolina’s coastal exposure means higher risk for wind, water, and hurricane damage. Regular homeowners insurance isn’t built for that—especially if you’re renting to tenants.

You need a landlord-specific policy that protects your property and your rental income from the actual risks landlords face.

What Landlord Insurance Covers in SC

Property Damage

Covers damage to your rental home caused by fire, storms, vandalism, and theft. This is critical during hurricane season or after a major thunderstorm.

Liability Coverage

If a tenant or visitor is injured on your property, this helps cover legal costs, medical expenses, and lawsuits.

Loss of Rental Income

If your rental becomes uninhabitable after a covered event, this replaces the rent you’d normally receive.

Optional Add-Ons

• Flood insurance (a must for coastal areas)
• Short-term rental endorsements — compare rental strategies
• Umbrella insurance for extended liability protection
• Equipment breakdown (for water heaters, HVAC, and appliances)

Cost of Landlord Insurance in South Carolina

Expect to pay between $950 and $1,900 per year, depending on:

• Location — coastal areas like Hilton Head or Charleston cost more
• Property age, materials, and condition
• Coverage limits and your deductible
• Whether you rent long-term or short-term

Bundling policies, maintaining the property, and installing safety features can help lower your premium.

Best Landlord Insurance Provider in SC

Our top pick? Steadily. They focus 100% on landlord insurance and offer fast quotes, flexible options, and excellent service.

• Fast, no-hassle online quotes
• Supports individual owners and LLCs
• Policies built for short-term, long-term, and multi-unit rentals
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fine print

Common Insurance Claims from SC Landlords

Wind & Hurricane Damage

One storm can cause thousands in roof, siding, and window damage. Make sure your policy isn’t full of exclusions.

Flooding

Standard landlord insurance doesn’t cover floods. You’ll need to add it separately—especially if you’re on or near the coast.

Liability Lawsuits

From deck collapses to slip-and-falls, tenants or visitors can file claims that cost you more than repairs ever will.

Tips to Lower Your Premium

• Install smoke detectors, sump pumps, and hurricane shutters
• Stay on top of maintenance and routine inspections
• Screen tenants carefully and require renters insurance
• Bundle landlord insurance with other properties
• Choose a higher deductible to reduce monthly premiums

FAQ: Landlord Insurance in South Carolina

Is landlord insurance required by law in SC?

No, but most mortgage lenders will require it—and skipping it is a huge financial risk.

Is flood coverage included?

No. You need to buy a separate flood policy or add flood coverage if your rental is in a high-risk zone.

Does landlord insurance cover tenant property?

No. Tenants need their own renters insurance for their belongings.

Final Thoughts

From hurricanes in Hilton Head to tenant claims in Greenville, landlord insurance in South Carolina is how you protect your investment.

Don’t wait until a storm hits or a tenant files a claim to realize your policy falls short. Avoid the common traps and get coverage that actually works.