South Carolina landlord-tenant laws.
Notable South Carolina quirk
A lease containing the conspicuous "IF YOU DO NOT PAY YOUR RENT ON TIME" clause permanently satisfies the 5-day nonpayment notice — no further warning is required for the life of the tenancy (§ 27-40-710(B)). Wrongfully withholding a deposit costs three times the amount withheld plus attorney's fees (§ 27-40-410(b)).
South Carolina landlord law FAQ
Is there a limit on security deposits in South Carolina?
No — South Carolina sets no cap on the amount. One catch: if you rent more than four adjoining units on the premises and use different deposit standards for different tenants, you must post the calculation standards conspicuously or hand each prospective tenant a written statement before the lease is signed (§ 27-40-410(c)).
How long do I have to return a security deposit in South Carolina?
30 days after termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's demand — whichever is later — with any deductions itemized in a written notice (§ 27-40-410(a)). Failing to return the deposit with that notice risks three times the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney's fees (§ 27-40-410(b)).
Can I charge a late fee in South Carolina?
Yes — the Act sets no cap and no grace period, so the fee must come from the lease. Rent is due at the beginning of each month unless the agreement says otherwise (§ 27-40-310), and once rent is 5 days late you may move to terminate after the required nonpayment notice (§ 27-40-710(B)).
How much notice before entering a rental in South Carolina?
At least 24 hours, and entry only at reasonable times (§ 27-40-530(c)). No notice is needed in an emergency — even approaching weather that threatens the property can qualify (§ 27-40-530(b)(1)) — and you may enter between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. for regularly scheduled periodic services like filter changes or pest treatment if the lease conspicuously reserves that right and you announce the entry (§ 27-40-530(b)(2)).
Do I have to give notice before evicting for nonpayment in South Carolina?
A written 5-day notice of nonpayment and intent to terminate is required — but one notice per lease term satisfies the obligation, and a conspicuous "IF YOU DO NOT PAY YOUR RENT ON TIME" clause in the written lease waives it entirely (§ 27-40-710(B)). Eviction (ejectment) is filed in magistrate court (§ 22-3-10(10); Title 27, Ch. 37).
How much can a landlord charge for late rent in South Carolina?
Reasonable. Grace period: None statutory — rent is due at the beginning of the month (§ 27-40-310); the 5-day nonpayment notice (§ 27-40-710(B)) is a cure window, not a grace period. Late fee terms should always be written into the lease.
What is the security deposit limit in South Carolina?
No cap. The deposit must be returned within 30 days after move-out.
How much notice does a landlord need to enter a rental in South Carolina?
24 hours.
Is there rent control in South Carolina?
Prohibited.
Sources
Summarized from public statutes, state bar guides, and provincial residential tenancy acts. Last reviewed 2026-07-17. Deposit statute: S.C. Code § 27-40-410 (no cap; treble damages for wrongful withholding). Late fee statute: None — the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is silent on late fees; the lease and general reasonableness govern (rent terms: § 27-40-310).
- S.C. Code tit. 27, ch. 40 — Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (§§ 27-40-310, -410, -530, -710, -770)
- S.C. Code § 22-3-10 (magistrate court civil jurisdiction)
- S.C. Code tit. 27, ch. 37 — Ejectment of Tenants
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.