South Carolina Security Deposit Rules (2026)

South Carolina § 27-40-410 requires security money to be returned less accrued rent and qualifying damages. Deductions must be itemized in writing and the amount due sent within 30 days after the relevant termination, possession and tenant-demand conditions, with the tenant providing a written forwarding or new address.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited

Itemization / refund30 days

Measured after termination, delivery of possession and tenant demand, whichever is later under the statutory wording.

Forwarding addressWritten

Tenant supplies a forwarding or new address.

Potential remedy3× wrongfully withheld

Plus reasonable attorney’s fees, subject to the statute and court determination.

Permitted withholdingRent + qualifying damages

Damages are tied to tenant noncompliance with § 27-40-510.

What to preserve

Lease and security-deposit receipt.
Tenancy termination date.
Date possession was delivered.
Written demand for the deposit/accounting.
Written forwarding address and proof of delivery.
Itemized deduction notice and refund.
Move-in/move-out photos and repair support.

There can be multiple trigger dates

The statute’s wording is not a simple “30 days from move-out” shortcut. Termination, delivery of possession and tenant demand should each be documented before calculating the ordinary deadline.

Use the latest applicable trigger. South Carolina’s 30-day wording involves termination, delivery of possession and tenant demand. Educational information only.

Official source

South Carolina LegislatureS.C. Code § 27-40-410 — Security deposits; prepaid rent ↗

Current official South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, including the 30-day itemization/refund, forwarding-address, deposit-standard disclosure and remedy provisions.

Related South Carolina guides

30-Day Rule →Forwarding Address →Damage Itemization →Deposit Standards →