The rule in South Carolina
South Carolina sets no statutory cap on the size of a residential security deposit: the source checked (South Carolina Legislature, Title 27 Chapter 40) states no maximum, so the amount is whatever the lease says.
The return deadline is 30 days, counted after the tenancy ends and possession is delivered, or after the tenant's demand, whichever is later. The text reads: “within thirty days after termination of the tenancy.”
Of the 44 jurisdictions verified here, 15 give landlords less time and 9 give more; the median is 30 days. 19 others also allow 30 days, among them Iowa, Kansas, Maine and Massachusetts.
Without a cap there is no dollar ceiling to compute. For comparison, 27 of the 44 verified jurisdictions do cap deposits, from one month's rent in states such as Alabama up to three months' rent in Nevada.
Worked date: if the clock starts on November 30, 2026, the deadline falls on December 30, 2026.
In neighbouring states with verified rules: North Carolina allows 30 days and caps deposits at two months' rent.
If a deposit is not returned, the small claims limit in South Carolina is $7,500 (small claims rules).
Source: South Carolina Legislature, Title 27 Chapter 40 · last checked October 20, 2026.
If the deposit does not come back
The statute above sets the deadline; what happens after it passes is covered in general terms in the guide on a deposit that is not returned, and the way each state starts and counts the clock is compared in how deposit deadlines are counted.
Questions
How much can a landlord charge as a security deposit in South Carolina?
South Carolina law sets no maximum in the source checked (S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a)); the lease sets the amount.
How long does a landlord in South Carolina have to return a deposit?
30 days: “within thirty days after termination of the tenancy” (S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a)).
When does the South Carolina deadline start?
The clock runs after the tenancy ends and possession is delivered, or after the tenant's demand, whichever is later.