No statutory limit. The return rule is 30 days. The controlling text is S.C. Code § 27-40-410.
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South Carolina's return deadline
30 days.
You have 30 days after the tenancy ends to return the deposit or deliver a written itemized statement of any deductions with the balance.
The itemized statement rule
A written itemized statement of deductions is required within 30 days, and failing to provide it can forfeit your right to withhold and expose you to penalties.
Account and interest rules
South Carolina sets no separate-account or interest requirement, though a landlord with multiple units at one address must apply consistent deposit standards or disclose the criteria used.
Exposure for wrongful withholding
Up to 3x plus attorney fees (bad faith).
A landlord who withholds in bad faith can be liable for up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees. The itemized statement inside 30 days is what keeps a deduction from becoming a trebled penalty.
South Carolina has no statutory deposit maximum
No statutory limit.
Compare South Carolina with neighboring states
- North Carolina: two months' rent; return rule: 30 days.
- Georgia: two months' rent; return rule: 30 days.
Verified against S.C. Code § 27-40-410 and official state sources in July 2026. Before withholding money, check the current statute text or ask a local landlord-tenant attorney. General information, not legal advice.