South Carolina has no deposit cap. Refund and itemized statement are due within 30 days after termination, possession delivery, and tenant demand. A separate trust account is required; no interest owed.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
—
no statutory cap
Return deadline
30
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
No
not required
Separate account
Required
Maximum Security Deposit
No statutory maximum
No numeric cap established in §27-40-410.
Return Deadline
30 days
After termination, possession delivery, and tenant demand, whichever is later.
Interest on Deposit
Not required
S.C. Code §27-40-410 does not require interest on deposits.
Separate Account Required
Required
§27-40-210(18) defines deposits as held in trust; separate account required per S.C. Code Ann. §27-40-410.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Accrued rent; damage from tenant statutory noncompliance.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary South Carolina statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in South Carolina?
South Carolina does not set a statutory maximum for security deposits. Landlords and tenants may agree to any amount in the lease. No numeric cap established in §27-40-410.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in South Carolina?
South Carolina landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 30 days after the tenancy ends. After termination, possession delivery, and tenant demand, whichever is later.
Does South Carolina require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
No. South Carolina law does not require landlords to pay interest to tenants on security deposits. S.C. Code §27-40-410 does not require interest on deposits.
Must South Carolina landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Yes. South Carolina requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account. §27-40-210(18) defines deposits as held in trust; separate account required per S.C. Code Ann. §27-40-410.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a South Carolina deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina before making decisions. Official source: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t27c040.php. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.