South Carolina Eviction Timeline
Step-by-step legal timeline from notice to lockout.
The eviction process in South Carolina follows a strict statutory timeline. Landlords must provide proper notice, wait for the notice period to expire, file with the court, and obtain a judgment before a lockout can occur. The timeline below outlines each step in chronological order based on current state law.
Eviction Process Timeline
Notice Period (Nonpayment)
5 days
Notice Period (Lease Violation)
14 days
Landlord Can File
Landlord may file after the notice period expires (or immediately if lease specifies in bold, conspicuous type).
Tenant Answer Deadline
10 days
Hearing Timeline
Typically 1–2 weeks after filing, depending on court schedule.
Lockout / Physical Eviction
Only the sheriff may execute the writ of ejectment after a court judgment.
Related Resources
Explore statutes, detailed rules, and calculators for this state.