Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/21/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I am filing a complaint against Palmetto Property Management of South Carolina- Amber M*******, for sending a Non-renewal of Lease email on January 15, 2025, ending our 1 year lease agreement, for taking our Security deposit of $900, so she could renovate all six units at our expense and the expense of the other tenants which resided at the Watson Street, Elgin, SC 29045. She made up fictious bills charging us for cleaning, painting and air filter fees leaving me a balance of $50 that I owed her. She knew she was never going to give anyone back their deposits to help her renovate all units, increase rent to the next renter's double what I was paying. I have every text, email and pictures to upload to show her unscrupulous actions.

  Business Response

  Date: 04/21/2025

  Palmetto Property Management of SC takes all complaints seriously and appreciates the opportunity to respond.
  
  
  The complainant entered into a one-year lease agreement, which was honored in full and terminated at its natural expiration. As permitted under South Carolina landlord-tenant law and the terms of the signed lease agreement, the decision to not renew the lease was communicated in writing in advance of the lease end date. A non-renewal of lease does not constitute an eviction or a violation of lease terms—it is standard practice and well within the rights of the property owner.
  
  
  Regarding the security deposit, our company conducted a detailed move-out inspection and provided the tenant with an itemized list of deductions in accordance with the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410). The deductions were based on documented conditions of the property at move-out, including cleaning charges, painting, and replacement of HVAC filters—all of which were substantiated with dated photos, invoices, and third-party vendor receipts. These charges were directly related to the condition of the unit upon vacating, not for renovations.
  
  
  It is both incorrect and defamatory to suggest that the security deposit was retained or used for planned renovations or rent increases for future tenants. All security deposit deductions were applied based on lease compliance and property condition, not speculative future intentions.
  
  
  The tenant received a full explanation of the deductions, including their remaining balance owed, along with an opportunity to dispute any charges. No formal dispute or evidence was provided by the complainant prior to this complaint. Should the tenant wish to pursue this matter further, we welcome a constructive and respectful dialogue and are happy to provide documentation supporting our actions.
  
  
  Palmetto Property Management of SC remains committed to operating with integrity and transparency in all tenant and owner interactions.
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/28/2025

  I do not accept Amber M*******s-PPM of SC response. She thinks she can spew out a couple of laws and that excuses her immoral and unethical practices of taking tenants security deposit claiming damages. She never set foot in any of the 6 units prior to purchase to see the problems, but ALL of the inspectors were shown and made aware of everything. That is documented. If you go on Amber M*******s, PPM of SC website, there are many complaints from tenants and potential tenants which shows a pattern and history of her taking peoples money. I am going to upload 2 particular reviews, one from a previous tenant and the other from my neighbor, who was asked/harrassed to leave during the same time as my family.

  She never had any intention of fixing anything while we were there or returning all tenants money from damages or poor conditions when we rented. No matter how much you clean a 10 year old carpet, its still going to look 10 years old.

  I want ALL of my security deposit back!

  Business Response

  Date: 04/28/2025

  We respectfully maintain our original position regarding this matter.
  
  
  Palmetto Property Management of SC (“PPM of SC”) has acted in accordance with the lease agreement signed by the tenant and in compliance with South Carolina Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Title 27, Chapter 40). Our lease outlines that tenants are responsible for any damages beyond normal wear and tear, and that security deposits may be withheld accordingly to cover such expenses.
  
  
  The former tenant’s assertions regarding our business practices are unfounded and not supported by facts. As noted previously, the condition of the property was carefully documented at move-in and move-out through photographs, videos, and inspection reports. Any charges assessed against the security deposit were clearly itemized and directly related to damages beyond reasonable wear and tear, in accordance with state law.
  
  
  While the complainant claims we “never set foot in the units” prior to purchase, this statement is inaccurate and irrelevant to the processing of a tenant’s deposit. All assessments, move-in, and move-out inspections conducted during tenancy are what govern deposit determinations—not pre-purchase building inspections. Furthermore, all maintenance requests and property conditions were documented throughout the tenancy.
  
  
  Regarding public reviews, PPM of SC manages hundreds of tenants and properties across the Midlands. As with any property management company, particularly one that enforces lease terms and charges for damages, it is not unusual to encounter a small number of complaints from tenants who disagree with deposit deductions. Nonetheless, the majority of our clients and tenants have had positive experiences, and we consistently strive to provide quality service to both tenants and property owners.
  
  
  It is important to note that dissatisfaction with security deposit outcomes does not constitute wrongful withholding. In this case, proper procedures were followed, appropriate documentation was retained, and all deductions were made within the legal guidelines of South Carolina law.
  
  
  We regret that the complainant is unhappy with the outcome; however, PPM of SC stands by its actions and the documentation supporting the partial withholding of the security deposit. As such, we must respectfully decline the demand for a full refund.
  
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond.
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:12/09/2024

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Palmetto Property Management of SC – Deceptive and Negligent Amber the Owner and Palmetto Property Management of SC completely mismanaged our property, causing significant financial and emotional stress. Over the course of a year, tenants were allowed to violate their lease terms, keeping four dogs instead of one. These pets caused continuous damage, resulting in over $7,000 in repairs, including urine-soaked floors, destroyed laminate, damaged doors, and plumbing issues. We consulted multiple contractors—from flooring experts to restoration professionals—who confirmed the floors were irreparably damaged from prolonged urine exposure. Despite this, Amber failed to provide inspection reports, enforce the pet deposit agreement, or conduct a single tenant inspection during the lease term. If she had, she would have identified these blatant violations. Amber's handling of the situation was unprofessional and deceptive. She returned the security and pet deposits without authorization or allowing us to inspect the property. When questioned, she refused to provide documentation or address our concerns. Her "cloak and dagger" approach to property management leaves no room for trust. We sre seeking the financial resolution, due to tye company's negligence, and seek payment to replace the laminate flooring, carpet and padding, new shower head and patio door. about $7000.00

  Business Response

  Date: 12/09/2024

  Here’s the updated response to reflect the inclusion of the property address:
  
  
  Response to Complaint
  
  
  Dear Better Business Bureau,
  
  
  Thank you for providing us with the opportunity to address this complaint. We take all concerns seriously and are committed to maintaining transparency and professionalism in all of our business practices.
  
  
  The claims made in this complaint are unfounded and inconsistent with the operations and policies of Palmetto Property Management of SC.
  
  
  To clarify:
  1.Lease Compliance: We conduct regular property inspections and strictly enforce lease terms, including pet policies. Any violations, such as unauthorized pets or damages, are documented and addressed immediately with tenants and property owners.
  2.Deposit Handling: Security and pet deposits are processed in full compliance with South Carolina landlord-tenant laws. Deposits are not returned without a thorough review of move-out inspections, proper documentation. 
  3.Communication and Records: Detailed inspection are conducted  and property updates are consistently maintained and made available to property owners. Claims of withheld documentation and unprofessional conduct are baseless.
  
  
  The complainant alleges $7,000 in damages to the property, including urine-soaked floors, damaged laminate, plumbing issues, and more. However, these claims have not been substantiated with verifiable evidence such as inspection reports, contractor estimates, or proof of communication. Additionally, our records do not reflect negligence in the handling of this property or the allegations described.
  
  
  If the complainant believes their claims are valid, we encourage them to provide:
  •Documentation of specific damages, including contractor assessments or receipts
  •Any correspondence regarding these concerns during the lease period
  
  At Palmetto Property Management of SC, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality service and maintaining clear communication with our property owners. We stand firmly by our policies and dispute the unfounded allegations made in this complaint.
  
  
  We respectfully request that this complaint be reviewed in light of the lack of substantiated evidence.
  
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/26/2024

  Type:Customer Service Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I applied for an apartment with the property management company. I was approved for this apartment. I was not given a set move-in date or timeframe. I have signed my lease with this company and I also paid a deposit on August 20, 2024 today. They are requiring me to pay more money before I am able to view the apartment and also, they have canceled my lease because I asked to view the apartment in person. they have made this process very unbearable and this is a horrible business. They have took my deposit and refused to refund me

  Business Response

  Date: 08/26/2024

  Good Evening, 

  I am once again writing to let you know I am not Amber who owns Palmetto Property Management of SC. My name is **** ***** and I am the Owner and Property Manager in Charge of ******** ******** ********** ** ********!!! I responded to a complaint LAST WEEK about someone else complaining about Amber and her company and the way SHE does business. 

  I started my company in 2007. She didn't come around until 2010-2012 time frame.  Her company was good for many years, not sure what happened but I get no less than 5 phone calls a week literally cussing me out thinking I am her. 

  My number is - ************. That is my personal cell. Feel free to call me any time to discuss this or any past or future complaints about her company but everyone thinks I am her...and I am not!!

  Business Response

  Date: 08/27/2024

  
  Thank you for your feedback. We take all concerns seriously and would like to clarify the situation regarding your application and lease agreement.
  
  1. **Lease Agreement and Move-In Process:** Upon approval, you were provided with a lease agreement that outlined the necessary steps to secure your new home. Per the terms of your application and lease, you were required to switch over the utilities to your name and make the initial rent payment within 24 hours. 
  
  2. **Failure to Complete Required Steps:** Despite our efforts to communicate these requirements, you did not complete the necessary steps within the given timeframe nor the additional timeframe that was allotted to you. As a result, the lease agreement was voided according to the terms you agreed to when you applied.
  
  3. **Viewing the Apartment:** We understand that you requested to view the apartment in person. However, our policy requires all initial requirements, including payment and utility setup, to be fulfilled before the property is made available for move-in.
  
  4. **Deposit Forfeiture:** Unfortunately, because the terms of the agreement were not met, your deposit was forfeited as stated in the lease agreement. This policy is in place to ensure fairness to all applicants and tenants.
  
  We regret that this situation has led to frustration, but we are committed to adhering to our policies to ensure consistency and fairness for all our tenants. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us directly.
  
  Thank you for your understanding.
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because,

  In my lease, it does not state I have 24 hours to move in that was sent in an email. Also, I did turn over the utilities in my name within 24 hours and made a deposit. I am able to view an apartment before move and pay money in person, There is no such thing as video tours only.  I do Not have to make payments and then be able to view an apartment. I don’t have 24 hours to pay everything and then moving an apartment i have never viewed. You also did not do the traditional way of taking my deposit and my payment at the same time. Your Company has yet to provide me with a move-in policy or an immediate moving policy. Giving me a time to make a payment which is three hours to secure my lease after I already made a deposit which should’ve been secured is not ethical. I’ve emailed your business multiple times about the situation so no, I will not be contacting you guys directly. 

   

   

   

   

  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******** ******

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  this business is not satisfactory, and i would like my deposit back. I received a payment link to pay my first months rent on Friday, August 23, included in this rent is a prorated rate for August. This was never discussed that I would be paying for August to me not one time. I express to this company I would not be paying my rent multiple times through electronic credit card or a website. I only had money order or check on my Initial email it says that I can pay through money order check. I asked the company multiple times on Monday, August 26. Can I view the apartment and Pay buy money order they begin to become hostile and demand that I pay electronically or my lease will be canceled. I said I will not be paying before I send the apartment in person. They canceled my lease and told me they are keeping my deposit. Time frame given to me except 24 hours and three hours. I asked asked  for their policies in writing And when they were established. I never received their policies. I never received a timeframe and I never received an apartment. they said that they would be canceling my lease. I asked him to send me the documentation and reasoning for them canceling my lease. They have yet to do so they never sent me a move-in date nor have they given me a timeframe. This company is going based off of their application, which states immediate moving only on my application. There was A move-in date section I put my move-in date and the approved move-in date upon approving my application. Company has misled me and they also made it seem like I had to pay my deposit to secure my housing. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/28/2024

  attached above is my initial welcome and acceptance email stated in the email it says that I am able to pay through overnight money order or checks. Also attaches them canceling my lease due to failure of payment, which gives me a three hour time frame after not accepting my forms of payment. They claim that they expressed to me that this property was video tour. Only this is false Because I never asked for a tour in person Nor have I ever asked for a video tour. Once I began to ask his company, can I pay through money orders or check and View the apartment in person. They enforced That I paid the money or my lease would be canceled. Also, they Told me they would cancel my lease before the timeframe, which was noon. 

  Business Response

  Date: 08/28/2024

  Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention. We take all feedback seriously and strive to address any issues promptly and fairly.
  
  Regarding your complaint, we would like to clarify a few points:
  
  1. **Payment Options**: As stated in the agreement, electronic payments are the only method acceptable for payment
  
  2. **Lease Cancellation**: The lease was canceled due to failure to make the payment within the agreed-upon timeframe. It is our policy to enforce deadlines to ensure that all parties are in compliance with the lease terms. You were informed that payment was required by noon, and when the payment was not received, we acted in accordance with our policy.
  
  3. **Property Tours**:  as stated when the advertisement video tours are the only option available for viewings
  
  
  If you have any additional questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. We are here to help resolve any concerns you may have.
  
  
  
  

  Business Response

  Date: 08/28/2024

  The tenant had ample time given past the original 24 hour window to submit to her payments which she failed to therefore, her lease was terminated In accordance with the guidelines for the application which she agreed to. 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/22/2024

  Type:Customer Service Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I found a house listed on ****** and was really interested in renting the house. Amber, spoke only via text no matter many times I called. She told me about the home after several attempts I was approved and was told by Amber that I had to pay double deposit. I made the payments that day. She told me I couldn't view the property until she's finished. She said she needed me to send her another copy of my paystubs and I did with no problem. She responds saying my stabs were fraudulent and that a refund will be issued. My paystubs are far from fraudulent but after every thing I simply wanted out. It's now Thursday and she still refuses to return my deposits and is slandering my ne and imagine. Amber profiled when I paid all the money and didn't like it...I simply want my money returned to me because this was my whole savings for my move.

  Business Response

  Date: 08/23/2024

  We appreciate the opportunity to address the concerns raised in this complaint. We strive to ensure a fair and transparent process for all our applicants, and we regret that this situation has caused frustration.
  
  **Refund Issued:**  
  The complainant's request for a refund has already been honored. We refunded the full amount minus card fees and admin fee, and we have received confirmation from the complainant that the funds were received, as evidenced by text message communication. We would be happy to provide these text messages to the BBB for verification if needed.
  
  **Fraudulent Documentation:**  
  During our standard application review, our system flagged the paystubs provided by the complainant as potentially fraudulent. As a result, her application was denied. We take the verification process very seriously to ensure the security and integrity of our business operations and the protection of all parties involved.
  
  **Communication:**  
  We have communicated with the complainant multiple times both via phone and text message to explain the situation. At no point was there any intention to profile or defame her character. Our decision was based solely on the information provided during the application process.
  
  **Conclusion:**  
  We have done everything in our power to resolve this issue amicably. The complainant has been refunded in full, and we believe this should conclude the matter. We regret any inconvenience caused and wish the complainant the best in her future endeavors.
  
  Please let us know if further information or documentation is needed.
  
  Thank you.
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/23/2024

  I've reviewed the I formation from the property manager and I don't agree with the withholding of 362 in administration fees. I've used my paystubs at several other places and I've never been treated this way. Outside of the application fees that I've already paid I want 100% of my deposit. I was charged 1456 NOT 1400, and I paid that 2x. I confirmed THIS MORNING of the deposit I was supposed to have received Monday, but as I mention the amount isn't correct. I've called and texted but she never responds. Also, Amber identified me as a scammed since she CLAIMED my stubs were fraudulent. I provider her with my district manager and HR but she never called. I do very much feel discrimination played a part here. I simply want the remaining of my deposit that is owed to me.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/23/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because: I've reviewed the I formation from the property manager and I don't agree with the withholding of 362 in administration fees. I've used my paystubs at several other places and I've never been treated this way. Outside of the application fees that I've already paid I want 100% of my deposit. I was charged 1456 NOT 1400, and I paid that 2x. I confirmed THIS MORNING of the deposit I was supposed to have received Monday, but as I mention the amount isn't correct. I've called and texted but she never responds. Also, Amber identified me as a scammed since she CLAIMED my stubs were fraudulent. I provider her with my district manager and HR but she never called. I do very much feel discrimination played a part here. I simply want the remaining of my deposit that is owed to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******* *****

  Business Response

  Date: 08/23/2024

  
  Thank you for allowing us to provide further clarification regarding this matter.
  
  **Refund Process and Fees:**
  The complainant was refunded the balance of her payment after deducting credit card processing fees and administrative fees, as outlined in the application she agreed to. These fees are standard and non-refundable, as clearly stated in the application terms. We processed the refund promptly once the application was denied, and the complainant has confirmed receipt of the refund.
  
  **Credit Card Payments:**
  All payments made via credit card are subject to processing fees, which are clearly communicated in our application terms. These fees were deducted from the refunded amount, as per our policy. The remaining balance was returned to the complainant, and she was informed of this through our previous communications.
  
  **Co-Applicant’s Record:**
  Initially, the complainant applied with a co-applicant who had a significant criminal record, which our background check flagged. This record played a key role in the initial decision regarding the application. After the co-applicant was removed, the complainant’s application was reassessed individually. However, due to the flagged paystubs, the application could not be approved under our company’s guidelines.
  
  **Conclusion:**
  We have adhered to our policies throughout this process, ensuring a fair and transparent handling of the application. The refund was issued in accordance with the terms agreed upon in the application, and the necessary fees were deducted as stipulated. We believe this resolves the matter in accordance with our standard practices.
  
  We appreciate the complainant's understanding and are available to provide any additional documentation or information if required.