What if a rental property changed ownership before my stay?

Myrtle Beach is one of the premier destinations in the United States. Planning a vacation, choosing a fancy-looking rental home and spending your days on the beach might be the highlight of your year.

Unfortunately, not all rental homes deliver on the owner’s advertised promise, and their dishonesty might be more severe than some dirty dishes or lack of facilities. If a renter knowingly rents out a dangerous property, they are liable to any injured customers even if the property is under new ownership.

Vacation Rental Act

Rental properties change hands often. If you rent a property that recently changed ownership, South Carolina Law has several protections. According to the South Carolina Vacation Rental Act, the sale of any rental property must include a written statement of every future rental period. In other words, the renter cannot claim ignorance of your scheduled stay if the property is under new ownership. It is the new owner’s responsibility to understand how many tenants to expect and prepare accordingly.

Unknown liabilities

Section 27-50-250(B) of the Vacation Rental Act mentions that the new owner is not liable for injuries or damages caused by unknown defects. However, there is only a certain amount of time that can pass before South Carolina courts will assume the owner should know about a flaw in their property. Vacation property owners are responsible for regularly inspecting and repairing their real estate.

A change of ownership gives some leeway to rental property owners. It does not, however, allow them to rent out a property that is dangerous to their tenants. If you or a family member has been injured by a property owner’s negligence or a dangerous property condition, a change in ownership could affect your case. However, you still have recourse.