The Standard Apartments in Charleston: What to Know Before You Move In

The Standard is a mid-rise apartment building in downtown Charleston with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units

The Standard sits at 127 Meeting Street in Charleston's historic district, a few blocks from the waterfront and walking distance to restaurants, galleries, and shops. The building itself is modern—completed in the mid-2010s—and offers floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed brick, and polished concrete floors in most units. Parking is available but limited and typically costs extra per month.

The building attracts people who want to live downtown without the noise of the Market Street corridor. It's quieter than some nearby complexes but still close enough to walk to major attractions. The neighborhood has a mix of residential and commercial space, so foot traffic varies by time of day.

Key Takeaways

• The Standard offers studio through two-bedroom units with modern finishes, located on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston's historic district.
• Parking is available but limited and charged separately, so confirm availability and cost before signing a lease.
• The building is pet-friendly with breed and size restrictions, and pet fees apply monthly or as a one-time charge depending on the lease terms.
• Lease terms, move-in costs, and current availability change frequently, so contact the leasing office directly for the most current information.

Unit layouts and what's included

Studios range from roughly 450 to 550 square feet and typically include one bathroom. One-bedroom units are usually between 650 and 800 square feet with one bathroom. Two-bedroom units run 900 to 1,100 square feet with either one or two bathrooms depending on the floor plan. All units come with stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, and air conditioning.

Most units have in-unit washer and dryer hookups or full washer-dryer units, though this varies by floor and lease date. Windows are large and many units have balconies or patios. The building does not include utilities in rent, so budget separately for electricity, water, and internet. High-speed internet is available through the building's provider, though you can also arrange service independently.

Parking, amenities, and building rules

Parking at The Standard is assigned and limited. Covered parking costs more than uncovered, and both fill up quickly. If you don't have a car or prefer not to pay for parking, the building is walkable to most downtown destinations and near the CARTA bus system. Visitor parking is available but often requires advance notice or a permit.

The building has a fitness center, a rooftop terrace, and a small lounge area on the ground floor. There is no pool. Pets are allowed with restrictions—most leases limit dogs to two per unit and require they be under 50 pounds, though some exceptions are made. Cats are typically allowed without size limits. Pet fees vary: some leases charge a monthly pet rent, others a one-time deposit. Confirm the exact terms when you inquire.

The building enforces quiet hours, usually from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. to 9 a.m. on weekends. Smoking is prohibited inside units and in common areas. Grilling is not permitted on balconies.

Lease terms and move-in costs

Standard lease terms are 12 months, though shorter or longer terms may be negotiated depending on availability. Move-in typically includes first month's rent, last month's rent, and a security deposit. Some leases also charge an application fee, which is non-refundable. Rent varies by unit size, floor, and lease date—units on higher floors and with better views cost more. Rates change seasonally and when leases renew.

The building occasionally offers move-in specials such as reduced deposits or waived application fees, particularly during slower leasing periods. These are not may provide and depend on current occupancy. Contact the leasing office to ask what incentives are available when you are ready to move.

Neighborhood context and transportation

Meeting Street is quieter than King Street but still central to downtown. You can walk to the Gibbes Museum of Art, the historic district's galleries and antique shops, and several restaurants within 10 minutes. The waterfront and Battery Park are about a 15-minute walk. Parking downtown is expensive and often difficult, so many residents rely on walking, biking, or the CARTA bus system.

The nearest CARTA bus stops are within two blocks. The system connects downtown to other neighborhoods and the airport, though service is less frequent than in larger cities. If you work outside downtown or plan to drive regularly, factor in parking costs and commute time before deciding to live here.

How to contact the leasing office and what to ask

The Standard's leasing office is located in the building's lobby and is typically open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also call or visit their website to schedule a tour. When you contact them, ask about current availability, exact rent for the unit size you want, all move-in costs, parking availability and pricing, and any current lease incentives.

Request a copy of the lease before you commit so you can review pet policies, parking terms, utility responsibilities, and any restrictions on subletting or lease breaks. Ask about the building's history with maintenance requests and how quickly they respond. If you have specific needs—a ground-floor unit for accessibility, a particular floor plan, or a move-in date—mention them early so the leasing team can tell you whether those options are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does The Standard allow dogs, and what are the restrictions?

Yes, dogs are allowed with restrictions. Most leases permit up to two dogs per unit with a weight limit around 50 pounds, though some exceptions exist. Pet fees vary—confirm whether you pay monthly pet rent or a one-time deposit. Cats are typically allowed without size restrictions. Always review the specific pet policy in your lease.

Is parking included in rent?

No. Parking is available but costs extra and is limited. Covered spaces cost more than uncovered. If you don't have a car or prefer not to pay for parking, the building is walkable to downtown attractions and near CARTA bus stops.

What utilities do I pay for?

Rent does not include utilities. You pay separately for electricity, water, and internet. High-speed internet is available through the building's provider, or you can arrange service independently. Budget for these costs when calculating your total monthly housing expense.

Can I break my lease early?

Early lease breaks typically result in a penalty or forfeiture of your security deposit, though terms vary. Some leases allow subletting as an alternative. Review the lease carefully before signing, and ask the leasing office what happens if you need to leave before the lease ends.

How do I schedule a tour?

Contact the leasing office in the building's lobby, call the main number, or visit their website to book a tour. Tours are usually available during business hours and on weekends. Bring a list of questions about specific units, move-in costs, and lease terms so you can get accurate information during your visit.