The "Multifamily Dwelling Safety Act" aims to enhance safety standards for balcony railings in multifamily dwellings in South Carolina. The bill establishes a new chapter in the South Carolina Code of Laws, defining key terms such as "inspector," "special inspector," and "multifamily dwelling." It outlines qualifications for inspectors, requiring them to be licensed professionals with relevant experience. The Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation is tasked with creating a Multifamily Dwelling Balcony Code that sets minimum standards for wooden balcony railings, conducting inspections every five years, and charging property owners a fee for these inspections.
Additionally, the bill provides for remedies and penalties for violations of the code, including potential misdemeanor charges for willful violations. It allows for waivers or exemptions under certain conditions, ensuring tenant safety is prioritized. The Department is required to implement the necessary regulations within six months of the act's approval, and enforcement will not begin until these regulations are in place. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.