South Carolina Landlord-Tenant Laws 2026

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always verify current statutes with your state legislature or consult a licensed attorney before making legal decisions.

Security Deposit Notice Period Eviction Late Fee Lease Termination Rent Increase Habitability Landlord Entry Fair Housing

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Security Deposit Rules

S.C. Code § 27-40-410

No statutory limit on deposit amount. Must be returned within 30 days. Itemized deductions required in writing. Must hold in separate, non-interest-bearing account.

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Notice Period Requirements

S.C. Code § 27-40-770

Month-to-month requires 30 days notice. Lease violation: 14 days notice to cure for non-compliance.

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Eviction Process

S.C. Code § 27-40-710

Nonpayment: 5-day notice to pay or quit. Lease violation: 14-day notice to cure. Court filing (ejectment) required. Self-help eviction prohibited.

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Late Fee Rules

S.C. Code § 27-40-310

No statutory cap on late fees. No required grace period. Fees must be specified in lease. Courts may scrutinize unreasonable fees.

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Lease Termination

S.C. Code § 27-40-770

Fixed-term ends per lease. Month-to-month: 30 days notice. Early termination for military deployment or domestic violence.

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Rent Increase Rules

S.C. Code § 27-40-310

No rent control. No statutory limit on increases. Proper notice required for month-to-month tenancies (30 days).

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Habitability Standards

S.C. Code § 27-40-440

Landlord must maintain premises in fit and habitable condition, comply with building and housing codes, keep common areas safe, provide running water and heat.

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Landlord Entry Rules

S.C. Code § 27-40-530

Landlord must give at least 24 hours notice before entry. Entry at reasonable times. Emergency entry without notice. Tenant may not unreasonably withhold access.

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