North Myrtle Beach, SC Security Deposit Laws 2026
South Carolina limits security deposits to 2 month(s) of rent. In North Myrtle Beach, that's $2,930 at the median 2BR rent of $1,465/month. Miss the 30-day return deadline and you could owe $4,395+.
In South Carolina, landlords must return security deposits within 30 days after move-out. The maximum deposit is 2 month(s) of rent. Failure to return on time or provide an itemized statement can result in penalties of $4,395 or more.
Key Takeaways — North Myrtle Beach Security Deposit Laws
- Maximum deposit: 2 month(s) of rent = $2,930 at North Myrtle Beach's median rent
- Return deadline: 30 days after tenant moves out
- Penalty for late return: Up to 3x the deposit ($4,395)
- Itemized statement: Required with any deductions
Security Deposit Laws in North Myrtle Beach
Under South Carolina law, landlords in North Myrtle Beach may collect a maximum security deposit of 2 month(s) of rent. At North Myrtle Beach's median 2-bedroom rent of $1,465/month, that means the most you can legally collect is $2,930.
$2,930
max deposit (2mo × $1,465)
30 days
return deadline
$4,395
max penalty for late return
Returning the Deposit: The 30-Day Clock
Once a tenant moves out of your North Myrtle Beach rental, South Carolina law gives you exactly 30 days to either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. The clock starts on the day the tenant surrenders possession — not when you inspect the unit.
What you can deduct from a security deposit in North Myrtle Beach:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to restore the unit to move-in condition
- Costs for restoring or replacing personal property (if lease allows)
What you cannot deduct:
- Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, carpet wear, faded paint)
- Pre-existing damage (document with photos at move-in)
- Professional cleaning if the tenant left the unit in reasonable condition
Penalty Warning
Violate South Carolina security deposit laws rules in North Myrtle Beach and you could owe $4,395+. At North Myrtle Beach's median rent of $1,465/month, even a single violation adds up fast.
Don’t risk it. Let LeaseBase handle the compliance.
LeaseBase automatically tracks deposit amounts, calculates return deadlines, and generates compliant itemized statements — so you never miss a deadline.
Start Free Trial30-day free trial · Cancel anytime
How North Myrtle Beach Rents Affect Deposit Amounts
Deposit amounts scale with local rents. Here's what North Myrtle Beach landlords typically collect:
| Unit Size | Median Rent (North Myrtle Beach) | Max Deposit (2mo) | Penalty Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,145/mo | $2,290 | $6,870 |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,229/mo | $2,458 | $7,374 |
| 2-Bedroom | $1,465/mo | $2,930 | $8,790 |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,805/mo | $3,610 | $10,830 |
Rents based on HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Horry County.
Calculate Your Limits
Enter your North Myrtle Beach rent amount to see exact limits and penalty exposure.
Free Calculator →No signup required.
More North Myrtle Beach Landlord Laws
Security Deposit Laws in Nearby Cities
Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:
Never miss a security deposit laws deadline in North Myrtle Beach
LeaseBase tracks deposit amounts, calculates return deadlines, and generates compliant itemized statements automatically.
Founding Customer Rate: $19/mo locked forever (only 62 of 100 spots left) · $0 today · Cancel anytime
Not ready to start? Get the free Security Deposit Laws checklist for South Carolina landlords.
Download Free ChecklistReviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
