South Carolina Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
S.C. Code §27-40-410 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration resulting from normal use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to treble (triple) the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under S.C. Code §27-40-410(b).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $7,500
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 30 days
- Treble damages and attorney fees for bad faith retention
What Your South Carolina Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from South Carolina's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
S.C. Code §27-40-410 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to South Carolina law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration resulting from normal use of the premises...
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South Carolina Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in South Carolina?
Under S.C. Code §27-40-410, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my South Carolina landlord legally take from my deposit?
In South Carolina, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in South Carolina?
In South Carolina: Deterioration resulting from normal use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my South Carolina landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to treble (triple) the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under S.C. Code §27-40-410(b). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in South Carolina?
Yes. South Carolina small claims court handles cases up to $7,500. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in South Carolina?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a South Carolina-specific dispute letter citing S.C. Code §27-40-410 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
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