South Carolina law
Construction Defect Laws in South Carolina.
South Carolina construction defect claims are governed by the general 3-year statute of limitations (S.C. Code § 15-3-530) and an 8-year statute of repose from substantial completion (S.C. Code § 15-3-640) — among the shorter reposes in the U.S. South Carolina's Notice and Opportunity to Cure Construction Defects Act requires pre-suit notice to the contractor. South Carolina licenses residential builders through the Residential Builders Commission. Mechanics' liens provide security.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Statute of Limitations
3-year general statute for property damage. 8-year statute of repose bars actions against designers, builders, or contractors more than 8 years after substantial completion — among the shorter reposes in the U.S.
State law
Key South Carolina Statutes
Residential homeowners must provide written Notice of Defects at least 90 days before filing suit, with opportunity for the contractor to inspect and make a written offer to repair or pay.
Regulates licensing of residential builders. Unlicensed builders cannot enforce contracts and may face penalties.
Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers may file mechanics' liens against improved real property. Filing deadline: 90 days from last furnishing.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.
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