South Carolina Deposit return deadline
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in South Carolina?
Itemized deductions and any refund are due within 30 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant makes a demand, whichever is later.
Verified Source: S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a) · last checked 2026-10-27
How this works in South Carolina
South Carolina gives you 30 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant makes a demand, whichever is later. Any deduction must be itemized in a written notice that also shows the amount due back.
Worked example for South Carolina
Say the lease ends on May 31, 2026, the tenant hands over keys on June 2, 2026, and makes a demand on June 9, 2026. The latest of those is June 9, 2026, so your itemized notice and any refund are due by July 9, 2026.
South Carolina timelines and limits
| Deadline | 30 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant demands, whichever is later |
|---|---|
| Deductions | Itemized in a written notice with the amount due |
South Carolina FAQ
How long does a South Carolina landlord have to return a deposit?
Within 30 days after termination, delivery of possession and the tenant's demand, whichever is later, under S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a).
Do I need to itemize deductions?
Yes. In a written notice with any amount due.
Which date starts the 30 days?
The latest of the end of the tenancy, delivery of possession and the tenant's demand.
Sources for this section: S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a) (checked 2026-10-27)
Same topic in neighboring states
All South Carolina landlord-tenant law · South Carolina landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone) · Move-in checklist
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