South Carolina-Specific Lease Template

Free South Carolina Lease Template

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South Carolina Lease Requirements

Key landlord-tenant regulations every South Carolina lease must address.

Security Deposit

Limit: No statutory limit

Return deadline: 30 days

Late Fees

No statutory cap; must be in lease

Required Disclosures

Lead-based paint (pre-1978), mold

Notice to Enter

24 hours

Notice to Terminate

30 days (month-to-month)

Governing Statutes

South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code § 27-40)

What to Include in a South Carolina Lease

A legally binding South Carolina lease agreement should include these essential clauses:

Parties: Full names of landlord and all adult tenants
Property address: Complete rental unit address
Term: Fixed-term (start and end dates) or month-to-month
Rent amount: Monthly rent, due date, and payment method
Security deposit: Amount collected (within South Carolina limits) and return conditions
Late fees: Fee structure as permitted by South Carolina law
Utilities: Which utilities landlord vs. tenant pays
Maintenance responsibilities: Who handles repairs and upkeep
Entry rules: Landlord notice requirements (24 hours)
Pet policy: Whether pets are allowed, deposits, and restrictions
Required disclosures: Lead-based paint (pre-1978), mold
Termination: Notice requirements (30 days (month-to-month))
Subletting: Whether subletting is allowed and conditions
Lead-based paint disclosure: Required for properties built before 1978

South Carolina-Specific Lease Laws

South Carolina landlord-tenant law is governed by the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (S.C. Code § 27-40). Here are key provisions landlords should know:

Security deposits are capped at No statutory limit and must be returned within 30 days after the tenant vacates
Late fees: No statutory cap; must be in lease
Entry notice: Landlords must give 24 hours before entering the rental unit
Termination notice: 30 days (month-to-month) to end a month-to-month tenancy
Required disclosures: Lead-based paint (pre-1978), mold

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws may change — consult a licensed South Carolina attorney for specific guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a security deposit limit in South Carolina?

South Carolina does not impose a statutory limit on security deposits. Landlords must return deposits within 30 days after the tenant vacates.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in South Carolina?

South Carolina landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates, with an itemized list for any deductions.

How much notice does a landlord need to enter a rental in South Carolina?

South Carolina landlords must provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering a rental unit, except in emergencies.

What disclosures are required in a South Carolina lease?

South Carolina requires lead-based paint disclosures for properties built before 1978. Landlords should also disclose any known mold issues.

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