Complaint for Unlawful Detainer - Residential Tenant Holding Over after Expiration of Term

Unlawful detainer applies to a tenant who holds over against a landlord after there has been a termination of the tenancy and an unsuccessful demand for possession. The action may relate to either residential or commercial property.

An unlawful detainer action may only be used when the tenant is unlawfully holding over. Since an action in an unlawful detainer involves a forfeiture of the tenant's right to possession, the landlord must plead and prove that the tenant remains in unlawful possession of the premises. If the tenant surrenders the premises to the landlord before the filing of the complaint, the landlord's remedy is an action for damages and rent.

This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular state. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.