North Carolina · Late fees

North Carolina late fee law

North Carolina landlords must wait 5 days after rent is due before charging a late fee, and state law caps the amount.

The rule

Grace period
5 days
Cap
Monthly rent: greater of $15 or 5% of the rent; weekly rent: greater of $4 or 5%
Grace period
A fee may be charged only when rent is 5 or more calendar days late.
Limits on the fee
Only one late fee per late payment.

Law: N.C.G.S. § 42-46(a)

Last reviewed September 30, 2026

Not legal advice. Statutes change; check the linked section.