S.C. Code Ann. § 15-67-420
Plaintiff's right to treble damages
Operative Text
If the party grieved recover in such action and it be found by verdict or in other manner by due form of law that the party defendant entered with force into the lands and tenements or, after his entry, did hold them with force, the plaintiff shall recover treble damages against the defendant.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-67-420, when a court or jury finds that a defendant forcibly entered or forcibly held onto real property, the law provides that the wronged party is entitled to receive three times the actual damages proven in the case. This multiplier applies when the forcible nature of the entry or retention is established through a verdict or other lawful legal process. The provision is designed to deter and penalize the use of force in disputes over possession of land or buildings.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers should be aware that S.C. Code Ann. § 15-67-420 cuts both ways: while it protects lawful owners against forcible intrusion, it also means that any landlord who uses force to enter or retain possession of a property — rather than following lawful eviction procedures — may face treble damages if a court finds the conduct unlawful. Compliant operators generally rely on court-supervised processes to recover possession and avoid any conduct that could be characterized as forcible entry or detainer. Maintaining clear records of all entry and possession actions is a common practice among operators seeking to demonstrate lawful conduct.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
S.C. Code Ann. § 15-67-420 gives tenants a meaningful remedy if a landlord or other party is found to have used force to enter or hold onto a rental property against the tenant's lawful possession. If a court or jury determines that such force occurred, the tenant may be entitled to recover three times the actual damages suffered as a result. Tenants who believe they have experienced a forcible entry or unlawful lockout may wish to document the incident thoroughly and consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider to understand the options available under this provision.
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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