Can the date be amended on a fixed term contract?

Our Experts Answer:

The end date of your tenancy will be the date that was agreed to between the parties when the agreement was signed. From what you have described in your question, it sounds like your landlord signed the agreement with one date on it, but that you changed the date on it before you signed it. If you did not reach an agreement with your landlord as to the end date for the tenancy, you may need to apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to have the matter resolved.

I suggest discussing the matter with your landlord to see if you can come to an agreement over when the tenancy will end. If you do reach an agreement with your landlord you should record the details on the tenancy agreement and both parties should sign it. If both parties cannot agree what date the fixed term tenancy will end, either party could apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to have the matter resolved.

To discuss your situation further, or for information about fixed term tenancies, you can visit the Department of Building and Housing website (www.dbh.govt.nz), or call 0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262).

The Department of Building and Housing provides information and guidance on building law and compliance, services including weathertight homes, and advice for tenants and landlords.