Late fee rules in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the late fee is at most $15 or 5% of the monthly rent, whichever is more. In North Carolina, for rent due on the 1st, the first late fee can be charged on the 6th at the earliest.
Checked against North Carolina law on Oct 28, 2026.
What North Carolina law says
What is the maximum late fee a landlord can charge in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the late fee is at most $15 or 5% of the monthly rent, whichever is more.
Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-46(a)(1), read Oct 28, 2026.
When can a landlord charge a late fee in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, for rent due on the 1st, the first late fee can be charged on the 6th at the earliest.
Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-46(a), read Oct 28, 2026.
Check your city's rules too: a city or county can set stricter limits. This is general information, not legal advice.