S.C. Code Ann. § 27-39-20
Validity of payment of rent for period longer than twelve months
Operative Text
Any payment made in anticipation of rent for a longer period than twelve months shall not be considered a valid discount against the claims and rights of third persons.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 27-39-20, when a tenant pays rent in advance for a period exceeding twelve months, that prepayment does not automatically protect the tenant against claims brought by third parties—such as a new owner, lender, or lienholder—who may have competing interests in the property. In other words, the law limits how far in advance a rent prepayment can be recognized as valid against outside parties. Payments covering twelve months or fewer are not subject to this restriction.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under S.C. Code Ann. § 27-39-20 should be aware that accepting rent payments covering more than twelve months in advance may not shield those funds from claims by third parties, such as mortgage lenders or subsequent purchasers. Compliant operators generally structure advance rent arrangements to stay within the twelve-month window to reduce exposure to competing claims. Consulting a real estate professional or legal counsel familiar with South Carolina landlord-tenant law is a common step when evaluating longer-term prepayment arrangements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
S.C. Code Ann. § 27-39-20 affects tenants who have prepaid rent for more than twelve months, as that prepayment may not be fully recognized as valid against third parties who later assert claims over the property. If a property changes hands or becomes subject to a lien, a tenant in this situation may find their prepaid rent disputed by the new party. Tenant-rights organizations in South Carolina can help explain what options are generally available when a prepaid rent arrangement is called into question.
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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