The bill H. 5063 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 38-75-70, which mandates periodic full structural inspections for certain coastal multi-story buildings as a prerequisite for property insurance renewal. Specifically, buildings that are four stories or a mean of 49 feet, located within three miles of the Atlantic Ocean, and at least fifteen years old must undergo these inspections by certified structural experts every five years. The certified expert is required to prepare a written report detailing their findings, which must be shared with both the insured and the insurer.

Additionally, insurers are permitted to use the findings from these structural inspection reports to make decisions regarding the renewal, nonrenewal, or conditional renewal of property insurance policies. If a policy is renewed following a qualifying inspection, it must provide coverage for loss or damage up to the policy limits and for reasonable alternative living expenses if evacuation is necessary due to identified structural deficiencies. The bill is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor and will apply to policies issued or renewed after December 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
01/29/2026: 38-75-70
Latest Version: 38-75-70