South Carolina · Security deposit

How big can the deposit be in South Carolina?

South Carolina law sets no maximum deposit.

Why, and the exact law

Within 30 days after you move out and ask for it, the landlord must send the rest with an itemized list of deductions.

From S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410, read Oct 6, 2026.
Show the law

“Any deduction from the security/rental deposit must be itemized by the landlord in a written notice to the tenant together with the amount due, if any, within thirty days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession and demand by the tenant, whichever is later …”

S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410 · scstatehouse.gov

Moved out? Count the days

In South Carolina the landlord has 30 days to return it.

Who can help

  1. Get free legal helpThey can help you ask for it, or go to small claims court.South Carolina Legal Services
Every rule here, word for word (1)

This page covers state law only. Cities with their own rules have their own pages.

South Carolina lawIn force

SC Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Security deposits; prepaid rent

How big can the deposit be?

South Carolina law sets no maximum deposit.

Within 30 days after you move out and ask for it, the landlord must send the rest with an itemized list of deductions.

Who it covers

  • Covers: Residential tenancies under the SC Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; the posting duty in subsection (c) applies only to landlords renting more than four adjoining units.
In force since
1986
The law, word for word

“Any deduction from the security/rental deposit must be itemized by the landlord in a written notice to the tenant together with the amount due, if any, within thirty days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession and demand by the tenant, whichever is later …”

S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410 · scstatehouse.gov · Retrieved Oct 6, 2026

More about South Carolina

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Information about the law, not legal advice.