Free South Carolina Eviction Notice Template

A South Carolina eviction notice is a formal warning to a tenant that the landlord intends to end the tenancy unless certain actions are taken—such as paying overdue rent or correcting a lease violation.

Under Title 15, Chapter 67 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, landlords must use the correct notice type and give tenants the required amount of time before filing an eviction case in Magistrate Court.

South Carolina law provides several notice options depending on the circumstances:

• 5-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit (SC Code § 27-40-710(b)): Used when rent is late. The tenant has five days from the date rent is due to pay in full or move out before the landlord may file for eviction.
• 14-Day Notice to Quit for Non-Compliance (SC Code § 27-40-710(a)): Given when the tenant violates the lease in another way besides non-payment of rent—such as damaging the property or allowing unauthorized occupants. The tenant has 14 days to fix the problem or leave.
• Immediate Notice to Quit (Illegal Activity): If the tenant uses the property for criminal purposes, the landlord may demand they vacate immediately, with no opportunity to correct the issue.
• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month Lease (SC Code § 27-40-770): Used when ending a month-to-month tenancy for any reason. Tenants must move out within 30 days of receiving the notice.

When preparing an eviction notice in South Carolina:

• Choose the correct notice type for your situation
• Include the names of the landlord and tenant and the rental property address
• State the reason for eviction, if applicable
• Specify the deadline for paying rent, fixing the violation, or moving out
• Sign and date the notice before serving it

Landlords may deliver the notice by:

• Handing it directly to the tenant
• Sending it by certified or registered mail
• Posting it on the rental property if other methods fail

Keep documentation of when and how the notice was delivered, as it will be required if the case goes to court.

If the tenant does not comply within the notice period:

1. File an Application for Ejectment with the local Magistrate Court.
2. Serve the Rule to Vacate or Show Cause on the tenant.
3. Attend the hearing if the tenant contests the eviction.
4. Request a Writ of Ejectment if the court rules in your favor so the sheriff can remove the tenant if necessary.

• Application for Ejectment: Begins the eviction case in Magistrate Court.
• Rule to Vacate or Show Cause: Orders the tenant to respond or leave the property.
• Affidavit and Itemization of Accounts: Lists rent or damages owed by the tenant.
• Writ of Ejectment: Authorizes the sheriff to remove the tenant if they refuse to leave.