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Owner’s PortalTenant Q&A: Understanding the New Pet Rules
As you may be aware, the Government’s new pet rules take effect from 1 December 2025, changing how pets are approved and how pet-related damage is managed in rental properties. These changes aim to make renting more accessible for responsible pet owners, while also giving landlords clearer pathways to recover costs if pets cause damage. The key shift is that landlords can no longer simply say “no pets” by default and decisions now need to be based on reasonable grounds, and pet bonds can be taken to help protect your investment. The goal is to balance fairness, flexibility, and protection and our role is to guide you through that confidently.
TENANT Q&A DOWNLOAD LANDLORD Q&A DOWNLOADWhen do the new rules start?
1 December 2025. Until that date, nothing changes. Your landlord still decides whether pets are allowed under your current tenancy agreement.
What is a pet bond?
From 1 December 2025, landlords may charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent (in addition to the standard bond of up to four weeks).
One pet bond is held per tenancy , you don’t pay a separate bond for each pet, and it must be lodged with Tenancy Services. If rent increases, the pet bond can be topped up; it is refunded when the pet leaves and no damage is found.
Will I automatically be allowed a pet?
Not automatically. You’ll still need written consent from your landlord before bringing a new pet into the property. However, landlords can no longer say “no pets” by default, they can only refuse on reasonable grounds.
How do I request a pet?
You must go through this process before bringing any new pet into the home. Bringing in a pet without written approval will still be considered a breach of your tenancy agreement, even after the law change.
To request approval:
- Email your Property Manager with details about the pet. Include the type, breed, age, size, temperament, and any relevant background information. If you have pet references from previous rentals, obedience certificates, or vet records, please include these too as they can help support your request.
- We’ll contact the property owner to discuss the suitability of the pet and any conditions that may apply.
- You’ll receive a written response within 21 days. If the owner doesn’t respond within that timeframe, the request is automatically considered approved under the new legislation.
- If approved, we’ll update your tenancy agreement with a short addendum that outlines any agreed conditions (for example, number or type of pets, carpet cleaning, or outdoor areas) and confirm whether a pet bond applies.
- Once this is completed, and the bond (if any) is lodged, you’ll have written consent to keep the pet at the property.
What are “reasonable grounds” to say no?
MBIE (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment) are still providing information around this, and we will know more closer to the 1 December however at this stage examples may include:
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The property isn’t suitable (e.g. no fencing for a dog)
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Body corporate or council rules prohibit pets
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The pet could cause health / safety risks (e.g. classified dangerous dog)
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There’s strong evidence the pet could cause significant damage
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The tenant refuses reasonable conditions (e.g. carpet cleaning at end of tenancy)
Can conditions be added if my pet is approved?
Yes, conditions must be reasonable and in writing. Examples include “one small dog only”, “indoor cat only”, or “professional carpet clean at end of tenancy.”
Do I need to pay a pet bond for my existing pet?
No. If you already have a lawfully approved pet before 1 December 2025, you don’t need to reapply or pay a new pet bond. The new rules only apply if you get a new pet after that date.
What if I get a pet without asking?
That remains a breach of your tenancy agreement. Landlords can issue a breach notice and apply to the Tenancy Tribunal if needed. Always ask first to avoid penalties or tenancy termination.
Who pays for pet damage?
You will be responsible for any damage caused by your pet. Both the general bond and the pet bond can be used to cover repairs.
What happens if my pet leaves or passes away during the tenancy?
If your approved pet is no longer living at the property, you can request the refund of your pet bond. Before this can happen, your property manager will arrange a quick inspection to confirm there’s no pet-related damage.
Once everything checks out, the pet bond will be refunded through Tenancy Services, just like your main tenancy bond at the end of a tenancy. If you later decide to get a new pet, you’ll need to go through the full approval process again including owner consent and potentially a new pet bond.
Are disability assist dogs included?
No. Disability assist dogs are excluded from pet-consent and pet-bond requirements. Permission is not needed and a pet bond cannot be charged.