South Carolina Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
S.C. Code §27-40-410 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days, you may be entitled to up to treble the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under S.C. Code §27-40-410(c).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: no statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $7,500
Additional Protections
- Landlord must provide itemized list of deductions within 30 days
- Treble damages available for bad faith withholding
What Your South Carolina Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from South Carolina's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
S.C. Code §27-40-410 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
30 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
up to treble the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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South Carolina Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in South Carolina?
Under S.C. Code §27-40-410, your landlord has 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my South Carolina landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to up to treble the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under S.C. Code §27-40-410(c). You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in South Carolina?
Under S.C. Code §27-40-410, the maximum security deposit in South Carolina is no statutory limit.
Does my South Carolina landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. South Carolina law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in South Carolina?
Yes. South Carolina small claims court handles cases up to $7,500. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in South Carolina?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a South Carolina-specific demand letter citing S.C. Code §27-40-410 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
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