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You are here: More Topics > Landlord/Tenant > Eviction Questions & Answers: A Guide for Tenants > How does the tenant prepare the Answer?
Most tenants use a form called Answer-Unlawful Detainer, (form UD-105).
The tenant can use the Answer form to respond to each point the landlord lists in the Summons and Complaint.
The tenant should read the Complaint carefully and make sure that s/he says in the answer if there is anything s/he doesn't agree with or things that aren't true.
There are many different things the tenant can say in the answer, directly in response to the landlord's complaint, or explaining why the tenant did what s/he did. The tenant should include everything in his/her defense, with details and dates.
For example, if the tenant doesn't agree s/he owes as much rent as the landlord claims, the tenant should say so and explain why s/he doesn't owe that amount. If the property is in really bad condition with rats or insects, the tenant should say so and explain if s/he asked the landlord to fix the problem, when s/he asked, and what the landlord did. If the unit needs a lot of repairs, the tenant should say so. If the tenant thinks the landlord is retaliating against him/her for something s/he did, the tenant should explain why.
It is really important the tenant fill out the Answer correctly. So the tenant should talk to a lawyer or legal aid office for advice on what to say, and how to say it. Click here to find legal help.
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Last modified: 11/13/2008
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