South Carolina Home and Auto Insurance for Charlotte-Area Households

Many Charlotte-area households live, or are moving, just across the state line in Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Indian Land and other York and Lancaster County communities. Many Charlotte-area families live, or are moving, just across the state line, and South Carolina has its own auto and home insurance rules. This guide explains the differences, and we can review your options by phone or video.

Moving from North Carolina to South Carolina

Home and auto policies follow the state where the home is located and where the car is garaged, so a North Carolina policy generally won't carry over as-is. Once you're a South Carolina resident, plan on a South Carolina auto policy and a homeowners policy written for South Carolina. Your lender will want proof of homeowners coverage before closing, so start the quote early.

South Carolina auto insurance requirements

South Carolina's minimum auto liability limits are 25/50/25:

• $25,000 bodily injury per person
• $50,000 bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 property damage

Uninsured motorist coverage is also required. These minimums can be used up quickly in a serious accident, so many drivers choose higher limits, and homeowners often add an umbrella policy.

South Carolina homeowners insurance basics

A homeowners policy typically covers your home, other structures, belongings, extra living expenses after a covered loss, and liability. In South Carolina, pay close attention to:

• Wind and hail deductibles, which are often a percentage of your dwelling coverage instead of a flat dollar amount.
• Flood, which standard homeowners policies don't cover. Homes near rivers, creeks and low-lying areas should price a separate flood policy.
• Roof age and condition, which can affect eligibility and price.

If you also own a coastal South Carolina home

In parts of coastal South Carolina, some carriers exclude wind and hail from the homeowners policy. When that happens, wind and hail coverage may come from the South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association (SCWHUA), often called the Wind Pool. It covers eligible properties in the coastal territory it serves. From SCWHUA's own guidelines:

• Policies cover the perils of wind and hail.
• The standard deductible is 3% for Zone 1 properties and 2% for Zone 2 properties. Higher deductibles are available for a premium credit.
• There's a 15-day waiting period after a complete application and full payment are received.

Many coastal homes can still be covered in the regular market, so it's worth comparing several carriers before settling for a Wind Pool policy. The SC Department of Insurance also runs the SC Safe Home program, which offers grants to help eligible coastal homeowners strengthen their homes against wind. Funding periods open and close, so check the program's site for current status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my North Carolina car insurance after moving to South Carolina?

No. Once you're a South Carolina resident, you'll need to register your vehicles in South Carolina and carry a South Carolina auto policy.

What are South Carolina's minimum auto insurance limits?

25/50/25: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required.

Does homeowners insurance cover flood in South Carolina?

No. Flood requires a separate policy.

What is the SC Wind Pool?

The South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association (SCWHUA) provides wind and hail coverage for eligible coastal properties, often when a homeowners policy excludes wind.