how long eviction takes south carolina is one of the first things renters want to know when a notice shows up at the door. The short answer is that it can move fast. In many cases, a landlord can go from written notice to a court order in three to six weeks.
However, every case is different. Your timeline depends on the type of notice, whether you ask for a hearing, and whether you appeal. This guide explains how long eviction takes south carolina tenants can expect as of September 2026. It also covers your rights at each step, so you can act before deadlines pass.
The Short Answer: how long eviction takes south carolina Tenants Face
South Carolina has one of the fastest eviction processes in the country. Most of the rules come from the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act in S.C. Code Title 27, Chapter 40. The court steps are in S.C. Code Title 27, Chapter 37. Evictions are heard in magistrate court. The court calls an eviction an “ejectment.”
A case with no delays usually follows a quick path. The notice period lasts 5 to 14 days. Filing and serving papers takes a few more days. After that, you get 10 days to ask for a hearing. If you lose, the order can be carried out 24 hours after it is served. As a result, how long eviction takes south carolina renters face can be under a month when nobody fights the case.
However, contested cases typically take longer. For example, a hearing may be set a week or two after you ask for one. An appeal can add weeks or even months. Busy county courts can also slow things down. In most cases, the full process runs about three to eight weeks.
Step-by-Step Eviction Timeline in South Carolina
The first step is a written notice. The type of notice depends on the reason. For unpaid rent, the landlord typically must give 5 days’ written notice under S.C. Code § 27-40-710(B). However, this notice may not be needed if your written lease clearly says so. Look for a clause saying no further notice is required. That one clause can change how long eviction takes south carolina tenants get before a court filing.
| Step | Typical Time | South Carolina Law |
|---|---|---|
| Notice for unpaid rent | 5 days | § 27-40-710(B) |
| Notice for a lease violation | 14 days to fix the problem | § 27-40-710(A) |
| Ending a month-to-month lease | 30 days | § 27-40-770 |
| Ending a week-to-week lease | 7 days | § 27-40-770 |
| Responding to a Rule to Show Cause | 10 days to request a hearing | Title 27, Ch. 37 |
| Writ of Ejectment carried out | 24 hours after service | § 27-37-160 |
After the notice period ends, the landlord files an Application for Ejectment. The magistrate then issues a Rule to Show Cause. This paper asks you to explain why you should not be removed. You typically have 10 days after service to request a hearing. If you do nothing, the judge can issue a Writ of Ejectment without a hearing.
If you lose, a constable or sheriff serves the writ. In most cases, you must leave within 24 hours. You may be able to appeal to circuit court, but the deadline is very short. Typically, you must also pay rent into court while the appeal is pending. Check with your magistrate court for the exact appeal deadline and rules.
Federal rules can add time for some renters. For example, HUD adopted a rule requiring 30 days’ notice for unpaid rent in public housing and project-based Section 8 homes. Properties with federally backed mortgages may also need a 30-day notice under the CARES Act. These rules can change how long eviction takes south carolina tenants in subsidized housing experience.
What to Do Right Now If You Get an Eviction Notice
Act right away. The biggest mistake is waiting. Missing the 10-day deadline can end your case before it starts. As a result, how long eviction takes south carolina renters have to protect themselves depends on quick action.
First, read every paper carefully. Write down the date you got each one. Count the days on a calendar. Second, request a hearing in writing at the magistrate court named on your Rule to Show Cause. Keep a copy for yourself. Third, gather proof. This includes rent receipts, bank records, texts, photos, and your lease.
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Next, get free help. South Carolina Legal Services helps low-income renters across the state. You can find court information on the South Carolina Judicial Branch website. You can also call 211 to ask about local rent help. Some programs may be able to cover back rent.
Also, know your protections. A landlord cannot lock you out, shut off utilities, or remove your things without a court order. Under § 27-40-660, a tenant removed illegally may recover three months’ rent or twice actual damages, whichever is more. Retaliation for repair complaints is also barred under § 27-40-910. Knowing how long eviction takes south carolina also means knowing a landlord cannot skip the court steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be evicted in South Carolina in two weeks?
In rare cases, it can happen that quickly. For example, your lease may waive the 5-day notice, and you may not request a hearing. However, how long eviction takes south carolina tenants see is typically three to six weeks.
Does paying the rent stop an eviction in South Carolina?
Sometimes it does. Many landlords accept full payment and drop the case. However, a landlord may not have to accept late rent after filing. Talk to a local legal-aid office right away.
How long do I have to move out after losing my eviction hearing?
Typically, the writ can be carried out 24 hours after it is served. As a result, you may have very little time to move. A quick appeal may pause removal if you pay rent into court. This final step is a key part of how long eviction takes south carolina renters face.
Check Your Rights in Your State
Find out exactly what your state’s law says about your situation — deadlines, deposit rules, and what to do next. Use our free tools to get the full picture.
Official Sources & Resources
For verified tenant rights and landlord-tenant law information:
- HUD (Tenant Rights): hud.gov
- LSC (Free Legal Aid): lsc.gov
- Cornell LII (Landlord-Tenant Law): law.cornell.edu
- State Court Self-Help: Check your state court’s self-help portal for official forms and deadlines
- State Legislature Websites: Verify exact statute language on your state legislature’s .gov site
Content last reviewed September 2026. If you notice any outdated information, please contact us.
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Disclaimer. The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlord-tenant laws vary by state, county, and city, and may change without notice. The creators assume no liability for accuracy or completeness. Always verify with your state court, a local legal-aid office, or a qualified tenant attorney for advice specific to your situation.