South Carolina security deposit rules
South Carolina sets no statutory limit on the size of a security deposit. The deposit must be returned itemized notice and refund within 30 days after the later of termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's demand; tenant must provide a forwarding address, with an itemised list of any deductions. No interest is owed on the deposit under state law.
What the law requires
No statutory limit. Returned Itemized notice and refund within 30 days after the later of termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's demand; tenant must provide a forwarding address. Wrongful withholding: treble damages plus attorney fees. Landlords of more than four adjoining units who use different deposit standards must post or disclose the standards.
- Deductions: unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, itemised in writing. Cleaning and repainting after ordinary use are normal wear in most states.
- Deadline: the 30-day clock usually starts when the tenant moves out and, in many states, when a forwarding address is provided. Missing it typically forfeits the landlord’s right to keep any of the deposit and can add statutory damages.
- Interest: none required under state law. Cities in some no-interest states have their own ordinances, so check the municipal code where you rent.
Move-out checklist
- Give written notice of the move-out date and a forwarding address; many deadlines only start when the landlord has the address.
- Photograph every room after cleaning, with a timestamp. Request a joint inspection where the state allows one.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand citing S.C. Code § 27-40-410. Small-claims court handles deposit disputes in every state and most cap the claim well above a typical deposit.
Related South Carolina rules
- Late fees: No statutory cap or grace period for residential late fees in South Carolina; the lease controls. Late fee calculator.
- Notice to end a tenancy: At least 30 days' written notice by either party for month-to-month (7 days for week-to-week) Nonpayment: 5 days after the due date the landlord may terminate after written notice; a conspicuous lease clause ('IF YOU DO NOT PAY YOUR RENT ON TIME...') satisfies the notice requirement for the whole tenancy. Notice calculator.
- All rules on one page: South Carolina landlord and tenant law.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in South Carolina?
There is no statutory cap in South Carolina; the market and the lease decide. Wrongful withholding: treble damages plus attorney fees. Landlords of more than four adjoining units who use different deposit standards must post or disclose the standards.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in South Carolina?
Itemized notice and refund within 30 days after the later of termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's demand; tenant must provide a forwarding address. The statute is S.C. Code § 27-40-410.
Does a South Carolina landlord have to pay interest on the security deposit?
No. South Carolina law does not require interest on residential security deposits.