Eviction in South Carolina
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
South Carolina requires 5 days' notice for nonpayment and allows quick court proceedings; eviction can be completed in 2–3 weeks.
How South Carolina treats Eviction
South Carolina Code Section 27-40-710 allows landlords to serve a 5-day notice to pay or quit for nonpayment of rent. If unpaid, the landlord files a summary ejectment action in magistrate court, which typically schedules a hearing within 10 days. Judgment can be entered quickly, and the sheriff executes removal shortly after. South Carolina's process is among the fastest in the nation and favors landlords significantly.
The general definition of Eviction
The legal process by which a landlord removes a tenant from rental property.
Eviction is the formal legal process a landlord uses to force a tenant to leave the property. The landlord must have a valid reason—such as non-payment of rent, lease violation, or the end of the lease term—and must follow strict procedural rules, which vary by state. Typically, the landlord must give written notice (often 30 days or more), file a case in court, and obtain a judgment from a judge before the tenant can be physically removed. A tenant has the right to defend themselves in court and present their side of the story.
Read the full Eviction entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.