First Apartment in Charleston — 19-Item Tenant Checklist

Read every page. Look for: security deposit amount and return timeline, early termination fees, pet fees, utility responsibilities, noise/quiet hours, guest policies, and renewal terms. Ask about anything unclear.

In SC, landlords must return your security deposit within the state-mandated timeframe (typically 14-45 days). They must provide an itemized list of deductions. Know the maximum they can charge and required interest.

Most leases require proof of renter's insurance before you get keys. Costs $15-30/month. Get at least $30K personal property coverage and $100K liability. Lemonade, State Farm, and USAA offer quick online quotes.

Ask your landlord: Is water/sewer included? Heat? Gas? Internet? In Charleston, some buildings include heat and water while others include nothing beyond the walls.

Contact your landlord for utility provider names. Set up electric, gas, and water (if not included) in your name before move-in.

Photograph every surface: walls, floors, appliances, fixtures, windows. Video walkthrough with narration. Email to yourself AND landlord with subject line 'Move-in condition [date]'. This is your evidence for deposit return.

Run the dishwasher, test all burners, check the oven, flush all toilets, run every faucet (hot and cold), test the garbage disposal, check the HVAC. Report issues IN WRITING to your landlord within 48 hours.

Get 2 spare apartment keys cut ($3-5 each at a hardware store). Keep one at home and give one to a trusted friend or family member. If you're in a high-security building with restricted blanks, ask your landlord.

First apartment essentials: hammer, Phillips and flathead screwdriver, pliers, tape measure, utility knife, flashlight, batteries, duct tape, picture hanging kit. Total: ~$25 at a hardware store.

Quiet hours, laundry room hours, package handling, guest parking, recycling/trash room location, move-in/out procedures, and how to submit maintenance requests. This is usually in your lease or posted in common areas.

Set up auto-pay or recurring reminders for rent day. Late rent fees in most leases are 5-10% after a grace period. Never be late — it's the fastest way to damage your tenant record.

If your Charleston apartment doesn't have in-unit laundry, find the closest laundromat. Check Google Maps for ratings and hours. Budget $2-4 per load for washers and $1.50-3 for dryers.

Save in your phone: landlord's cell, building maintenance/emergency line, local police non-emergency, fire department non-emergency, poison control (1-800-222-1222), and a 24-hour locksmith.

Most landlords prefer written requests (email or portal). Always request in writing — it creates a paper trail. If something is urgent (no heat, flooding, gas smell), call AND email.

As a SC tenant, you have the right to 'quiet enjoyment' — your landlord cannot enter without proper notice (typically 24-48 hours except emergencies) and cannot harass you.

After a month of unpacking, does your coverage match your belongings? Update if you brought expensive electronics, furniture, or jewelry. Take photos of valuable items for claims.

Compare your first full-month utility bills to what you expected. In Charleston, average monthly utilities run $100-250 depending on the apartment size. If something seems high, check for drafty windows or inefficient appliances.

Check under sinks for leaks, test smoke/CO detectors, check HVAC filters, look for signs of pests. Report issues early — small leaks become mold, small cracks become infestations.

Save every email, text, and letter from your landlord. Take notes after phone calls. This protects you in disputes about repairs, deposits, or lease terms.