The "Multifamily Dwelling Safety Act" aims to enhance safety standards for balconies in multifamily dwellings in South Carolina. The bill introduces several new sections to the South Carolina Code of Laws, defining key terms such as "multifamily dwelling" and "qualified inspector." It mandates the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation to establish a Multifamily Dwelling Balcony Code that sets minimum standards for wooden balcony railings and requires periodic inspections of these balconies to ensure compliance. Property owners will be charged a fee for these inspections, and the department is authorized to issue waivers or exemptions under certain conditions.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations of the new code, classifying willful violations as misdemeanors punishable by fines or imprisonment. The department is tasked with conducting inspections at least once every five years and must provide property owners with notice prior to inspections. The regulations for the Multifamily Dwelling Balcony Code are required to be promulgated within six months of the act's approval, which will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 20-21-110, 20-21-120, 20-21-130, 20-21-140, 20-21-150, 20-21-160, 20-21-170, 20-21-180
01/17/2025: 20-21-110, 20-21-120, 20-21-130, 20-21-140, 20-21-150, 20-21-160, 20-21-170, 20-21-180
Latest Version: 20-21-110, 20-21-120, 20-21-130, 20-21-140, 20-21-150, 20-21-160, 20-21-170, 20-21-180