Renting with pets has historically been tricky for both landlords and tenants. Many tenants see their pets are part of the family, while landlords might worry about potential damage to their property.
With new rules set to take effect in late 2025, it will soon become easier for tenants to rent with pets. At the time of publication, an exact date for these changes has yet to be set. Tenants and landlords need to note that these changes will not affect tenancies until late 2025. Please click here to visit tenancy.govt.nz for further guidance.
What's Changing in the Law for Renting with Pets?
Changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will take effect in late 2025. Here’s what landlords and tenants need to know:
- Pet Consent: Landlords will be required to give written consent if tenants want to keep pets. They can only refuse consent on specific, reasonable grounds. These include issues such as the suitability of the property for the pet (size, fencing), relevant rules or bylaws, or concerns about the pet’s behaviour, such as a dangerous breed or disruptive behaviour.
- Pet Bond: Landlords will be allowed to charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the regular bond. This bond will help cover any potential damage caused by the pet.
- Pet-Related Damage: Tenants will be fully responsible for any damage caused by their pets beyond normal wear and tear.
Landlords can only refuse a pet request based on the reasonable grounds listed above, and they can set reasonable conditions on their consent. For example, tenants may be asked to pay a pet bond, keep pets restrained when the landlord enters the property, or ensure the carpets are professionally cleaned at the end of the tenancy.
What is a Pet Bond and How Does it Work?
A pet bond is an extra deposit tenants pay when they have pets, which helps cover potential damage to the property.
- What It Is: A pet bond is an additional payment made to the landlord when tenants have pets. This bond is separate from the regular bond.
- How Much Is It?: Landlords can charge a pet bond up to two weeks’ rent, which is refundable if there’s no pet-related damage.
- Getting It Back: Just like the regular bond, the pet bond is refundable as long as there’s no damage caused by the pet.
Landlords are allowed to charge a pet bond to cover potential damage, but the total bond (including the pet bond and regular bond) cannot exceed four weeks’ rent in total.
Can Landlords Refuse Pets in a Rental Property?
Yes, landlords can refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet, but only on reasonable grounds.
Here are some of the key reasons a landlord may decline:
Property Unsuitability:The premises may not be appropriate for a pet due to factors like size, lack of fencing, or unique property features.
Rules or Bylaws: A relevant bylaw or rule may prohibit pets on the premises.
Non-Compliance: The tenant may not have followed bylaws related to keeping pets.
Pet Unsuitability:
- The pet’s size, breed, or species may not be suitable for the property.
- The pet has a history of causing damage or disturbances.
- The pet is classified as dangerous or menacing under the Dog Control Act 1996.
- There’s evidence the pet has previously attacked people, livestock, or other animals.
Unreasonable Conditions: If the tenant refuses to agree to reasonable conditions set by the landlord for keeping a pet.
Past Issues: The tenant has previously failed to comply with pet-related conditions in another tenancy.
What Conditions Can Landlords Set for Pets in Rental Properties?
When granting consent, landlords can set reasonable conditions that take into account the nature of the property and the type of pet. Examples include:
- Charging a pet bond to cover potential damages.
- Requiring that pets be restrained when the landlord lawfully enters the property.
- Asking for professional carpet cleaning at the end of the tenancy.
These conditions must be fair and relevant to the situation.
By law, landlords must consider requests for pets carefully and cannot unreasonably refuse them. Both tenants and landlords should aim for open communication to find a suitable solution.
Should Landlords Consider Renting to Tenants with Pets?
There’s a growing demand for pet-friendly rental properties, and allowing pets in your property can bring many benefits:
A Larger Tenant Pool to Choose From
Allowing pets means more people will be interested in your property. This increased demand can give you a better chance of finding high-quality, reliable tenants who are willing to commit to longer leases.
Longer Tenancies & Lower Vacancy Rates
Tenants with pets often stay longer. This can save you time and money on turnover, as well as reduce vacancy rates – helping you can avoid the costs and hassles of finding new tenants frequently.
Happier Tenants
Pet owners are often responsible tenants who take good care of their homes. Allowing pets can lead to happier tenants who are more likely to renew their lease, creating stability for both them and you as a landlord
