South Carolina sets no statutory cap on a residential security deposit. Under S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410, when a tenancy ends the landlord must refund the deposit, less any accrued rent and damages, and itemize every deduction in a written notice within 30 days after termination, delivery of possession, and the tenant's demand, whichever is later.
S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410(a) requires that any deduction "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." Deductions are limited to accrued rent and damages from the tenant's noncompliance with § 27-40-510. Landlords renting more than four adjoining units who use different deposit standards for different tenants must post or provide a written statement of how deposits are calculated; failure forfeits the right to deduct the difference above the lowest comparable deposit. The statute imposes no maximum deposit amount.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410(b), if a landlord wrongfully withholds a security deposit or prepaid rent, the tenant "may recover the property and money in an amount equal to three times the amount wrongfully withheld and reasonable attorney's fees." The tenant must first provide a forwarding address in writing for the notice and any refund.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
North Charleston, SC
North Charleston regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. SC Code §16-17-530 applies.
North Charleston, SC
North Charleston addresses barking dogs under its animal control ordinances. Persistent barking that disturbs neighbors constitutes a nuisance. North Charles...
North Charleston, SC
North Charleston permits construction during standard daytime hours. Construction activity is generally allowed from 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 6 P...
North Charleston, SC
North Charleston regulates noise under Chapter 15, Article II of the City Code. Excessive noise that disturbs the peace is prohibited, with stricter enforcem...
North Charleston, SC
North Charleston regulates on-street parking through posted signs and general ordinances. Vehicles may not be parked for more than 72 hours in the same locat...
North Charleston, SC
North Charleston requires driveways to meet certain standards. Parking is only allowed on paved or approved surfaces, and vehicles may not block sidewalks or...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Charleston County.
See how North Charleston's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.