Scams & Consumer Issues in South Carolina

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key South Carolina Law

South Carolina Code Section 39-5-20 (South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act)

South Carolina's Unfair Trade Practices Act (SCUTPA) declares unlawful unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce.

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Procedural Details in South Carolina

South Carolina's SCUTPA (SC Code Section 39-5-10 et seq.) provides a private right of action under SC Code Section 39-5-140. Consumers who suffer actual damages may recover those damages plus attorney fees. For willful or knowing violations, courts may award up to three times actual damages. The statute of limitations is three years under SC Code Section 39-5-150. An important limitation: SCUTPA requires that the conduct affect the "public interest" — purely private disputes between businesses or between a consumer and one business may not qualify if there is no broader public impact. South Carolina requires residential building contractors to be licensed by the SC Residential Builders Commission under SC Code Section 40-59. Contractors performing new residential construction must hold a Residential Builder license. Specialty contractors (electrical, plumbing) must hold separate licenses.

South Carolina Agencies & Resources

South Carolina Attorney General — Consumer Protection Division

Enforces SCUTPA and accepts consumer fraud complaints from South Carolina residents.

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SC Residential Builders Commission

Licenses residential builders and handles contractor fraud complaints in South Carolina.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does South Carolina's consumer protection law require a public interest showing?

Yes. SCUTPA requires that the deceptive conduct affect the "public interest" beyond just the individual consumer's dispute. Courts assess factors including whether the conduct was likely to affect other consumers. A purely private business dispute may not qualify.

What remedies are available under South Carolina's UTPA?

Actual damages plus attorney fees. For willful or knowing violations, courts may award up to three times actual damages.

What is the statute of limitations for SCUTPA claims?

Three years from the date of the unfair or deceptive act under SC Code Section 39-5-150.

Does South Carolina license residential contractors?

Yes. Residential builders must be licensed by the SC Residential Builders Commission under SC Code Section 40-59. Verify licenses at llr.sc.gov/build before hiring.

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