S.C. Code Ann. § 27-37-140
Action of tenant wrongfully dispossessed
Operative Text
In case any tenant is wrongfully dispossessed he may have an action for damages against the landlord.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 27-37-140, a tenant who is removed from a rental property without legal justification has the right to bring a civil lawsuit seeking monetary compensation from the landlord responsible for the unlawful removal. The provision establishes that wrongful dispossession is a recognized legal wrong that can give rise to a damages claim. It does not specify a cap on damages, leaving the amount to be determined through the legal process.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Section 27-37-140 of the South Carolina Code makes clear that removing a tenant from a rental unit without following proper legal procedures can expose a property owner to a civil damages lawsuit. Compliant operators generally ensure that any removal of a tenant is carried out only after obtaining a valid court order through the formal eviction process. Landlords who bypass lawful eviction procedures—such as changing locks, removing belongings, or shutting off utilities to force a tenant out—risk being held financially liable under this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
S.C. Code Ann. § 27-37-140 gives tenants who have been unlawfully removed from their homes a legal basis to sue the landlord for damages in civil court. If a landlord has forced a tenant out without going through the proper court-ordered eviction process, that tenant may have grounds to raise a wrongful dispossession claim. Tenants in this situation may wish to document the circumstances of their removal, consult a tenant-rights organization, or seek guidance from a licensed South Carolina attorney to understand what options may be available.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 16, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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