South Carolina Security Deposit Law: Deadlines & Penalties
South Carolina landlords must return the security deposit, minus lawful deductions, within 30 days after the later of two events: the end of the tenancy and delivery of possession, or the tenant's demand for the deposit. The landlord may keep only accrued rent and damages caused by the tenant's failure to meet the tenant's duties under the state landlord-tenant act.
Every deduction must be itemized in a written notice sent with any amount due. Tenants are expected to give the landlord a forwarding or new address in writing. A tenant who doesn't may lose the right to damages if the landlord had no notice of the tenant's whereabouts and mailed the notice to the last known address.
If the landlord fails to return the deposit with the required notice, the tenant may recover three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable legal fees. Landlords with more than four adjoining units who use different deposit standards for different tenants must disclose those standards in advance.
Put these rules in writing
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South Carolina: common questions
How long does a South Carolina landlord have to return a deposit?
30 days after the later of the end of the tenancy and your delivery of possession, or your demand for the deposit. This letter works as a written demand and also gives your forwarding address.
Do I need to give my landlord a forwarding address in South Carolina?
Yes. The statute asks tenants to provide a forwarding or new address in writing. Without one, you may lose the right to damages if the landlord mailed the notice to your last known address and had no way to find you.
What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a deposit in South Carolina?
A court can award three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable legal fees. That makes a documented, dated demand like this one especially worthwhile, so keep a copy and proof of mailing.
Where do I sue for a deposit in South Carolina?
Most deposit disputes fit in magistrate court, which hears most civil claims of up to $7,500 and also handles landlord and tenant matters. Bring your lease, move-in and move-out photos, this letter and your proof of mailing.
Compare nearby states
| State | Return deadline | Itemized list | Small claims limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 30 days | Required | $7,500 (magistrate court) |
| Georgia | 30 days | Required | $15,000 (magistrate court) |
| North Carolina | 30 days | Required | $10,000 |
| Alabama | 60 days | Required | $6,000 |
| Alaska | See statute | Required | $10,000 |
| Arizona | See statute | Required | $5,000 |
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