South Carolina Physical Fitness Center Bond
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How much does a health and fitness facility bond cost in South Carolina?
A South Carolina health and fitness facility bond is subject to underwriting, meaning the cost is determined by an underwriter and is based on the amount of the bond and the applicant’s credit. Applicants determined to be highly qualified are typically approved to pay as little as 1% to 3% of the total bond amount.
If you’re ready to become bonded quickly, easily, and accurately, call SuretyBonds.com at 1 (800) 308-4358 or fill out an online bond request form.
What does a physical fitness club bond protect?
South Carolina physical fitness center bonds ensure that principals (fitness center operators) comply with the South Carolina Physical Fitness Services Act: South Carolina Code 44-79-10. Specifically, this bond protects consumers if the fitness club fails to perform all duties to the guidelines of the code, such as failing to provide contracted or paid services.
Who might need a surety bond to operate a physical fitness facility in South Carolina?
The Physical Fitness Services Act provides a broad definition for who may provide physical fitness services. The list is defined by Section 44-79-20 and includes the following businesses:
- Facilities and services of health or exercise centers, clubs, studios, or classes
- Health spas
- Weight control centers, clinics, or studios
- Figure salons
- Tanning centers
- Athletic or sport clubs
Rehabilitative therapy is not included in the definition if it is administered by a licensed physical therapist.
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What are the terms of a physical fitness facility bond?
Physical fitness club surety bonds in South Carolina can be terminated if the surety provides written notice of cancellation to the administrator stating that the liability ends 45 days from the date of the notice or upon written authorization mailed to the surety by the administrator.
The bond form must be notarized by a commissioned notary public.
How to start a health or fitness facility in South Carolina
A health or fitness facility in South Carolina must be certified before it can offer any services to consumers. Once an applicant has created an account with the SC licensure gateway, information for a background check must be submitted if one is not already on file. After this information is provided, you can now complete the online application:
- Complete the license application online. Select the Physical Fitness program, then select the license type you are applying for. Once started, follow all license instructions provided.
- Include a certificate of authority and the application fee of $50 per location payable to the S.C. Department of Consumer Affairs.
- Provide a copy of the most recent membership agreement, if applicable.
- Include a copy of contract(s) to be used, if applicable.
- Provide your surety bond in the proper amount.
- If applying as a corporation or LLC, provide a certified copy of Certificate of Existence and a copy of Articles of Incorporation/Organization. Copies can be obtained by visiting the Secretary of State’s website or calling (803) 734-2158.
- Include a copy of the rate sheet/price schedule for all physical fitness services offered.
Your completed application and payment can be mailed to the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs – Physical Fitness Services at the following address:
South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs
Physical Fitness Services
P.O. Box 5757
Columbia, SC 29250-5757
Take the first step toward becoming a certified health club in South Carolina by purchasing the surety bond you need!
How to renew your physical fitness license
All South Carolina physical fitness licenses must be renewed by December 31 each year. When applying for your license renewal, you must complete the Physical Fitness Renewal Application.
- Include general business information.
- Indicate if your business is a corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, general partnership, or sole proprietorship.
- List names and info of all associated owners or partners.
- Answer all financial questions on the form.
- Include a copy of your surety bond continuation certificate or letter of credit in the required amount.
- Include the $50 per location fee check payable to the SC Department of Consumer Affairs.
- Provide a copy of most recent membership agreement, if applicable.
- Include a copy of contract(s) to be used, if applicable.
- Provide an updated letter of credit Annual Report if not previously submitted for this calendar year. If the report was not previously submitted for the calendar year, include the $50 late filing fee.
- If applying as a corporation or LLC, provide a certified copy of Certificate of Existence and a copy of Articles of Incorporation/Organization.
- Include a copy of the rate sheet/price schedule for all physical fitness services offered.
More details on filing online can be found on the SCDCA’S Licensing Guide, the Instructions for Renewal Physical Fitness Application, and the Instructions for Filing the Initial Physical Fitness Application.
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