Start with the reason for the charge
South Carolina limits what a landlord can keep from a security deposit.
The statute allows withholding for accrued rent and damages caused by tenant noncompliance.
Common issues
The question is not whether the landlord is unhappy with the unit. The question is whether the amount withheld fits the statute and is supported by facts.
Common disputes include:
- charges for ordinary wear and tear
- vague cleaning charges
- repairs with no itemized explanation
- old or pre-existing damage
- deductions that are not tied to tenant noncompliance
- unpaid rent claims that do not match the ledger
The itemized written notice matters
If deductions are claimed, the landlord must itemize them in a written notice and send any amount due within the South Carolina deadline.
Keep the written notice, any refund, photos, move-out records, and messages about condition. If a charge is vague or unsupported, your next written step should ask the landlord to tie the deduction to the facts and return any balance that is still owed.
Get the Deposit Recovery System
Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.