Call SCR hotline if you have an animal issue. The laws in South Carolina are not settled. Don’t be the test case unless you want to be the test case.
NAR "The Hub" has a White Paper on this issue.
SCR has a video from SC Human Affairs Commission at the SC REALTORS Youtube channel.
SCR has a rough draft form on this issue.
https://www.screaltors.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/DRFTSCR419.pdf
Potential tenant requests in writing a reasonable accommodation for their disability.
Reasonable accommodation: allow animal(s) without pet rent, without pet deposit, but you can deduct animal damage to the property from the tenant’s security deposit and pursue legal remedies if the deposit does not cover the damage. Animals have to follow general rules such as keep animal vaccinated and show veterinarian documentation. Animals cannot be dangerous. Insurance issues may attach.
Disability: physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life function.
Written request: Paper or electronic document if the disability is not obvious (e.g. seeing eye dog for a blind potential tenant). While most authorities have previously opined that a professional should state there is a non-obvious disability, the NAR White Paper states that the potential tenant can state there is a non-obvious disability. Do not inquire what the disability is or entails.
Posted by: Byron King on 03/12/19 (This information is only accurate as of 03/12/19. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 03/12/19 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org)