Evicting a bad tenant in South Carolina costs ~$6,340.
How South Carolina handles evictions
Low filing fee; quick magistrate process.
Most of that loss is preventable.
Bad tenants almost always leave a paper trail — the problem is that most landlords don't check carefully. Here's what a proper screening catches before you sign the lease.
South Carolina eviction cost FAQ
How much does it cost to evict someone in South Carolina?
A typical contested eviction in South Carolina costs around $6,340 all-in: a $40 filing fee, roughly 1 months of lost rent ($1,300 at a typical $1,300/mo), plus legal fees, property damage beyond the deposit, and turnover costs. Uncontested cases cost less.
How long does an eviction take in South Carolina?
About 25 days (~4 weeks) on average from notice to lockout. Low filing fee; quick magistrate process.
How much is the eviction filing fee in South Carolina?
$40, filed with the Magistrate Court. Service, writ, and execution fees are typically extra and vary by county/court.
What court handles evictions in South Carolina?
Evictions in South Carolina are handled by the Magistrate Court.
Sources & methodology
Filing fees and timelines reflect the Magistrate Court and public tribunal fee schedules; cost figures are estimates compiled from public court schedules, Eviction Lab, and state guides — actual costs vary by county, contest status, and market conditions.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.