SC · TenantClaim
South Carolina Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 30 calendar days to return a deposit under South Carolina Code Section 27-40-410. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
South Carolina deposit calculator
Statutory math from South Carolina Code Section 27-40-410.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
South Carolina requires return of the deposit and an itemized accounting within 30 days (S.C. Code § 27-40-410). There is no statewide 2x/3x multiplier; the tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus damages under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Multiplier: 0x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in South Carolina
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under South Carolina Code Section 27-40-410
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 30 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$7,500
Claims above this South Carolina ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full South Carolina Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideSouth Carolina security deposit FAQ
How long does a South Carolina landlord have to return my deposit?+
South Carolina generally requires return within 30 calendar days after move-out under South Carolina Code Section 27-40-410. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
South Carolina requires return of the deposit and an itemized accounting within 30 days (S.C. Code § 27-40-410). There is no statewide 2x/3x multiplier; the tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus damages under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
What is the South Carolina small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $7,500. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. South Carolina requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.