🌴 South Carolina Lease Termination Laws
Complete guide to ending a lease in South Carolina, including notice requirements, eviction procedures, and tenant rights under South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code §§ 27-40-10 to 27-40-940).
Overview of South Carolina Lease Termination Laws
South Carolina landlord-tenant law is governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code §§ 27-40-10 to 27-40-940). South Carolina is considered a landlord-friendly state with short notice periods (5 days for non-payment) and no statutory limit on security deposits.
South Carolina requires landlords to maintain habitable premises under the Act. The state has specific eviction procedures that must be followed, including summary ejectment through magistrate court.
📋 Primary Legal Authority
South Carolina lease termination is governed by S.C. Code §§ 27-40-10 to 27-40-940. Key sections include § 27-40-710 (termination for non-payment), § 27-740 (security deposits), and § 27-40-770 (periodic tenancy).
Notice Requirements for Lease Termination
| Situation | Notice Required | Details | Legal Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month Tenancy | 30 Days | Written notice | § 27-40-770 |
| Week-to-Week Tenancy | 7 Days | Written notice | § 27-40-770 |
| Non-Payment of Rent | 5 Days | Pay or quit | § 27-40-710(B) |
| Lease Violations | 14 Days | Cure or quit | § 27-40-710(A) |
| Repeat Violations | 14 Days | No cure right | § 27-40-710(A) |
Non-Payment of Rent
South Carolina requires only 5 days written notice for non-payment of rent, one of the shorter periods in the nation. Tenant must pay within 5 days or vacate.
🔍 Screen Tenants to Avoid Termination Issues
The best way to avoid lease termination problems is to find reliable tenants from the start.
South Carolina Lease Termination Forms & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice does a landlord have to give in South Carolina?
30 days for month-to-month, 7 days for week-to-week. For non-payment, only 5 days. For lease violations, 14 days with cure right (unless repeat violation within 6 months).
Is there a security deposit limit in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina has no statutory limit on security deposits. Deposits must be returned within 30 days with itemized statement of deductions.
📋 Legal Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. South Carolina laws are subject to change. Consult a licensed attorney before taking legal action. Last updated 2025.
