S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-390
Sale of materials of removed or demolished dwelling
Operative Text
If a dwelling is removed or demolished by a public officer he shall sell the materials of such dwelling and shall credit the proceeds of such sale against the cost of the removal or demolition and any balance remaining shall be deposited in the circuit court by the public officer, shall be secured in such manner as may be directed by such court and shall be disbursed by such court to the persons found to be entitled thereto by final order or decree of such court.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-390, when a public officer removes or demolishes a dwelling, the salvageable materials from that structure must be sold. The money raised from that sale is first applied to offset the costs of the removal or demolition. Any funds left over after covering those costs are deposited with the circuit court, held securely as directed by the court, and ultimately distributed to whoever the court determines is legally entitled to receive them.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners whose dwellings are subject to government-ordered removal or demolition under S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-390 should be aware that the public officer overseeing the action is required to sell the structure's materials and apply the proceeds toward demolition costs. If the sale generates more than enough to cover those costs, the surplus does not simply revert to the government — it is held by the circuit court pending a determination of who is entitled to it. Operators and owners with a financial interest in such a property generally document their ownership and any liens or encumbrances so they can present a claim to the court for any remaining balance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
S.C. Code Ann. § 31-15-390 establishes that when a public officer demolishes or removes a dwelling, any money left over after selling the materials and paying demolition costs must be deposited with the circuit court rather than kept by the government. Tenants or other parties who believe they have a legal interest in those surplus funds may have standing to present a claim before the circuit court, which issues a final order determining who receives the balance. Those with questions about whether they qualify as an entitled party under this provision may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid service familiar with South Carolina housing law.
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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