News Summary
For the third consecutive year, Horry County, South Carolina, is leading in Homeowners Association (HOA) complaints, with data showing a significant increase. In 2024, complaints soared to 617, a nearly 20% rise from the previous year, with Horry County accounting for 27% of these statewide issues. The complaints primarily focus on enforcement of covenants and maintenance concerns. Many homeowners are struggling to navigate the complexities of HOA rules, prompting calls for clearer communication and understanding within communities.
Horry County Leads the Charge in HOA Complaints for Another Year!
Welcome to Horry County, where, for the third year running, residents have been ringing the alarm on their Homeowners Associations (HOAs). If you thought the allure of beach living meant carefree days and sunny afternoons, you might want to think again. New data reveals that complaints against HOAs are on the rise, and Horry County is leading the pack in South Carolina!
What the Numbers Say
In the most recent statistics from the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA), the total number of complaints filed reached a staggering 617 in 2024, marking a nearly 20% increase from the previous year. This growing trend has led to Horry County accounting for an impressive 27% of these complaints. For those keeping score, that’s nearly one-third of all complaints statewide!
Despite making up just about 7% of the state’s total population, Horry County’s complaints are outpacing other counties by a long shot. In comparison, Richland County came in second with 13.4% and Charleston County followed as a distant third at 7.8%. That’s quite a leap, and it leaves many wondering why Horry County residents are so vocal about their HOA issues.
What Are People Complaining About?
The most common grievances seem to focus on two specific areas: the failure to adhere to and/or enforce covenants and bylaws, along with issues related to maintenance and repairs. With many new developments popping up like wildflowers in spring, it’s no surprise that residents are encountering challenges as they navigate their community rules.
But hang on—here’s something worth thinking about: nearly 70% of the complaints were marked as closed, suggesting that businesses responded satisfactorily. On the flip side, only 2.8% of complainants felt satisfied with the outcome of the resolution process. Who knew that navigating an HOA could feel like running a maze?
Why So Many Complaints?
Rapid development in Horry County is one major factor behind the upswing in complaints. As neighborhoods grow, it’s common to see new homeowners flocking to communities with HOAs, yet many may not fully understand the intricacies of those community rules. The prevalence of HOAs in these new areas means a rise in the number of disputes as people seek to enforce or question those very rules.
It’s also worth noting that 15% of complaints are closed as “undetermined” due to disputed facts, leaving homeowners in the lurch. In addition, 9.7% of complaints were labeled “unsatisfied,” primarily due to businesses’ non-response. It seems that even when people voice their issues, getting a clear answer is a different story.
Going About Resolving Issues
For those wrestling with their own HOA headaches, a seasoned attorney pointed out that many disputes involve tricky matters, especially concerning condominiums. The issues often escalate when homeowners want to make changes to their property or when they find themselves up against neighbors who aren’t obeying community rules.
Folks are encouraged to keep things friendly at first. Engaging with property management companies or HOA boards in a constructive manner can often help express concerns before they blow up into larger disputes. Starting off on the right foot may lead to quicker resolutions, allowing for happier living in a complex world.
The Bottom Line
As Horry County continues to lead the state in HOA complaints, the need for clear communication and understanding within these communities has never been more apparent. After all, amidst the sunshine and coastal breezes, living in an HOA shouldn’t feel like a battle for survival. With a little effort, residents can foster a more amicable environment where everyone can enjoy their piece of paradise!
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Additional Resources
- WBTW News: Horry County Leads State in HOA Complaints for 2024
- Myrtle Beach Online: Horry County HOA Complaints
- WMBF News: Horry County Accounts for Over 25% of HOA Complaints
- Grand Strand Magazine: Homeowners Association Insights
- WMBF News Video: Horry County Tops List of HOA Complaints
- Wikipedia: Homeowners’ Association
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
