Updated for 2026

South Carolina Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

South Carolina landlords must return your security deposit within 30 days. While there's no cap on deposit amounts, the state provides a strong 3× penalty for wrongful withholding — plus attorney fees. Use our free calculator to see what you're owed.

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South Carolina Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
30 Days
After move-out
Maximum Deposit
No State Limit
Penalty for Late Return
3× Withheld
+ attorney fees
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
S.C. Code § 27-40-410

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Enter your deposit amount and move-out date to instantly see your landlord's deadline, any penalties owed, and your total refund.

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South Carolina Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 30-Day Return Deadline

Under S.C. Code § 27-40-410, South Carolina landlords have 30 days after the tenancy ends to return the security deposit. The landlord must provide an itemized list of any deductions along with the remaining balance. The 30-day clock starts when the tenant moves out and returns possession of the unit.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

South Carolina landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and costs to restore the unit to its move-in condition. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, carpet worn from regular use — cannot be deducted. The landlord must provide a specific itemized list of all deductions.

The 3× Penalty

South Carolina provides one of the strongest penalty provisions in the Southeast. If a landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit, the tenant can recover up to 3× the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney fees. This treble damages provision gives tenants significant leverage and makes it costly for landlords to play games with deposits.

No Deposit Cap

South Carolina does not limit how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit. While 1–2 months' rent is typical, there's no statutory maximum. The strong penalty provision does provide some natural deterrent against excessive deposits, since the landlord's exposure increases with the deposit amount.

What to Do If Your Landlord Is Late

  1. 1
    Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video. Keep your lease and all communications.
  2. 2
    Provide your forwarding address in writing Email or certified mail creates a clear record.
  3. 3
    Send a formal demand letter after 30 days Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing S.C. Code § 27-40-410.
  4. 4
    Wait 14 days for a response Give your landlord a reasonable window to respond.
  5. 5
    File in magistrate court South Carolina's small claims limit is $7,500 in magistrate court. You can sue for the deposit plus 3× the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees.

South Carolina Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in South Carolina?
South Carolina landlords have 30 days after the tenant moves out to return the deposit with an itemized list of deductions.
What is the maximum security deposit in South Carolina?
South Carolina has no state limit on security deposit amounts.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in South Carolina?
Tenants can recover up to 3× the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees.
Does South Carolina require interest on security deposits?
No. South Carolina does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in South Carolina?
Document the unit, provide your forwarding address, wait 30 days, then send a demand letter. If unresolved, file in magistrate court (limit: $7,500).

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