South Carolina Tenant Rights
South Carolina is generally landlord-friendly with basic tenant protections.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- No statutory limit
- Return deadline
- 30 days
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- 24 hours
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- No
- Details
- No rent control in South Carolina.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- No statutory grace period
- Late fee limit
- No statutory limit — must be reasonable
Early Lease Termination
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence, uninhabitable conditions. Landlord must mitigate damages.
Key Statutes & Laws
- South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (SC Code § 27-40-10 et seq.)
Frequently Asked Questions — South Carolina Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the security deposit limit is No statutory limit. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days.
How much notice must a South Carolina landlord give before entering?
South Carolina requires 24 hours before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does South Carolina have rent control?
No rent control in South Carolina.
Can I break my lease early in South Carolina?
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence, uninhabitable conditions. Landlord must mitigate damages.
What is the late fee grace period in South Carolina?
No statutory grace period. Late fee limit: No statutory limit — must be reasonable.
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This guide provides general information about South Carolina tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.