North Carolina late fee law

Read from the statute itself on 2026-11-09. Statewide rule; a city or county can add its own.

Statutory cap
Greater of 5% of monthly rent or $15
Grace period
5 days after the due date

Monthly rent: up to the greater of $15 or 5% of the rent, only once rent is 5 calendar days late, once per late payment. Weekly rent: the greater of $4 or 5%. For subsidized tenancies the fee is computed on the tenant's share only.

Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-46(a)-(b) · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

Legal maximum
$125 maximum
The statutory ceiling in North Carolina at this rent: Greater of 5% of monthly rent or $15.
Grace period
5 days
Statutory cap
Greater of 5% of monthly rent or $15
North Carolina: Monthly rent: up to the greater of $15 or 5% of the rent, only once rent is 5 calendar days late, once per late payment. Weekly rent: the greater of $4 or 5%. For subsidized tenancies the fee is computed on the tenant's share only.
Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-46(a)-(b) · read on 2026-11-09

North Carolina: common questions

What is the maximum late fee in North Carolina?

North Carolina's statute caps it: Greater of 5% of monthly rent or $15. Monthly rent: up to the greater of $15 or 5% of the rent, only once rent is 5 calendar days late, once per late payment. Weekly rent: the greater of $4 or 5%. For subsidized tenancies the fee is computed on the tenant's share only.

Is there a grace period for late rent in North Carolina?

Yes: no late fee may be charged until rent is 5 days past due.

Not legal advice. Confirm with a local landlord-tenant attorney before relying on a figure.

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