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Granard Courts: A Historic Public Housing Community in Charleston

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Granard Courts is and where to find it

Granard Courts is a public housing community in Charleston, South Carolina, managed by the Charleston Housing Authority. Located in the downtown area, it consists of low-rise residential buildings that have served as affordable housing for families and individuals since its establishment. The community sits within walking distance of downtown Charleston's employment centers, schools, and public transportation.

The development is part of Charleston's broader public housing portfolio and operates under federal guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Like other public housing communities, Granard Courts provides rental homes to residents whose income falls below certain thresholds set by HUD each year. The rent is calculated as a percentage of household income, typically 30 percent, rather than a flat market rate.

Key Takeaways

  • Granard Courts is a public housing community managed by the Charleston Housing Authority located in downtown Charleston.
  • Rent is calculated as 30 percent of your household income, not a fixed monthly amount.
  • The Charleston Housing Authority maintains a waiting list for Granard Courts, and wait times vary depending on unit availability and the number of applicants.
  • Residents must meet income limits set annually by HUD, which change based on family size and area median income.
  • The community is subject to lease terms and house rules enforced by the Charleston Housing Authority.

Income limits and who can live there

To live at Granard Courts, your household income must fall below the limits set by HUD for the Charleston area. These limits vary by family size—a single person has a different threshold than a family of four—and HUD updates them each year. The Charleston Housing Authority can tell you the current income limits when you contact them about the waiting list.

Income includes wages, Social Security, disability payments, child support, and other regular sources of money. The Charleston Housing Authority will ask for recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements to verify your income. If your income exceeds the limit, you will not be placed on the waiting list, though you may want to ask about other affordable housing options in Charleston.

How to get on the waiting list

The Charleston Housing Authority manages the waiting list for Granard Courts. You can contact them directly to ask about current openings and the process for being added to the list. They will provide you with an application form and explain what documents you need to bring—typically proof of income, identification, and information about your household composition.

Wait times at Granard Courts depend on how many units are available and how many people are ahead of you on the list. The Charleston Housing Authority can give you an estimate of the current wait time when you apply. Some applicants wait months; others may wait longer. You can remain on the waiting list while you search for other housing options.

Rent and what it covers

At Granard Courts, your rent is set at 30 percent of your household's gross monthly income. This means rent is not a fixed amount—it changes if your income changes. If you receive a raise or your income decreases, you report this to the Charleston Housing Authority, and your rent adjusts accordingly at your next lease renewal.

Your rent covers your unit and basic maintenance by the housing authority. Utilities—electricity, water, gas, and trash—may be included in your rent or billed separately depending on your lease. Ask the Charleston Housing Authority which utilities are covered and which you pay directly. Renters insurance is not required but is recommended to protect your personal belongings.

Lease terms and community rules

When you move into Granard Courts, you sign a lease with the Charleston Housing Authority. The lease outlines your responsibilities as a resident, including keeping your unit clean and in good condition, paying rent on time, and following community rules. The housing authority can evict you for lease violations, such as non-payment of rent, criminal activity, or damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear.

Granard Courts has house rules that all residents must follow. These typically include restrictions on noise, guest policies, pet policies, and maintenance of common areas. The Charleston Housing Authority provides a copy of these rules when you move in. If you have questions about what is allowed, ask the management office before you move in or early in your tenancy.

Maintenance and repairs

The Charleston Housing Authority is responsible for maintaining the building structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and heating and cooling equipment. If something breaks—a leaky faucet, a broken window, a malfunctioning stove—you report it to the management office, and they send a maintenance worker to fix it at no cost to you.

For non-emergency repairs, the housing authority typically responds within a set timeframe, often several days. For emergencies—no heat in winter, a burst pipe, a security issue—call the management office immediately or the emergency number they provide. Keep records of repair requests in case you need to document that the housing authority was notified of a problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the waiting list for Granard Courts?

Wait times vary and change frequently depending on how many units become available and how many people are on the list. The Charleston Housing Authority can tell you the current wait time when you contact them. Some people wait several months; others may wait longer. You can ask to be placed on the list even if the wait is long.

What happens if my income increases?

If your income rises above HUD's limit for your family size, you may no longer be able to live in public housing. However, most public housing programs allow a period of time—often one year—where you can stay even if your income temporarily exceeds the limit. After that period, you would need to move. Ask the Charleston Housing Authority about their specific income recertification policy.

Can I have pets at Granard Courts?

Pet policies vary by development. Some public housing communities allow cats and dogs with restrictions on size or number; others do not allow pets at all. Contact the Charleston Housing Authority to ask about Granard Courts' current pet policy before you apply or move in.

What if I need to break my lease early?

Breaking a lease early typically requires written notice and may result in penalties or fees, depending on your lease terms and the reason for leaving. Contact the Charleston Housing Authority management office to discuss your situation. They can explain what options may be available to you and what the process involves.

How do I contact the Charleston Housing Authority about Granard Courts?

You can reach the Charleston Housing Authority by phone, email, or by visiting their office in person. Their contact information is available on their website or by calling directory assistance. When you contact them, ask specifically about Granard Courts, current waiting list status, and the application process.