70-24-429. Holdover remedies -- consent to continued occupancy -- tenant's response to service in action for possession. (1) If the tenant remains in possession without the landlord's consent after expiration of the term of the rental agreement or its termination, the landlord may bring an action for possession.

(2) If the term is longer than month-to-month and the landlord terminates the rental agreement with cause and the tenant's holdover is purposeful and not in good faith, the landlord may recover an amount not more than 3 months' periodic rent or treble damages, whichever is greater.

(3) If the term of the rental is month-to-month and the landlord terminates the rental agreement without cause and issues a lawful 30-day notice and the tenant remains in the rental unit after the termination date, then the holdover is purposeful and the landlord may recover an amount not more than 3 months' periodic rent or treble damages, whichever is greater.

(4) In an action for possession or unlawful holdover, the provisions of the Montana Justice and City Court Rules of Civil Procedure, Title 25, chapter 23, apply, except that the time for filing an answer under Rule 4C(2)(b) is 5 business days after service of summons and complaint, exclusive of the date of service.

(5) If the landlord consents to the tenant's continued occupancy, 70-24-201(2)(e) applies.