24 CFR § 26.14
Answer
February 22, 2021
(a) Respondent shall file an answer within 30 days of receipt of the complaint, unless otherwise specified in this title or ordered by the hearing officer.
(b) The answer shall:
(1) Respond specifically to each factual allegation contained in the complaint;
(2) Specifically plead any affirmative defense; and
(3) Set forth any mitigating factors or extenuating circumstances.
(c) A general denial shall not be permitted. Allegations are admitted when not specifically denied in respondent's answer.