Renting with Pets in NZ: What the Law Change Means for Landlords and Tenants

A paradigm shift What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024 is set to bring significant changes to New Zealand’s rental market, particularly around pet ownership. Once enacted, landlords will face stricter limitations on declining tenant requests to keep pets, making blanket "no pets" policies much harder to enforce.

This legislation is designed to provide more flexibility and housing stability for tenants with pets while still balancing landlords’ rights. However, it’s important to note that the Bill is not yet law—these changes are expected to take effect in late 2025. Until then, current tenancy rules still apply—more on that below.

What’s Changing Under the New Pets in Rentals Policy?

Under the proposed law, tenants will have more rights to keep pets, but landlords will still have some ability to say no under certain conditions. Key changes include:

• Landlords must provide written consent for pets unless they have reasonable grounds for refusal.
• Pet bonds (up to two weeks’ rent) will be permitted, but total bonds cannot exceed the existing four-week legal limit.
• The law is expected to take effect in late 2025, but it is not yet in force.
• Until then, landlords and tenants must follow current Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) rules.

What’s the Current Law vs. What Will Change?

Currently:

• Landlords can refuse pets without providing specific reasons.
• No provisions exist for pet bonds.
• Many rental properties have blanket "no pets" policies.

Once the Bill becomes law:

• The default will be that tenants can have pets unless landlords provide valid reasons for refusal.
• Landlords will be able to charge a pet bond to cover potential pet-related damage.
• Tenants will have the right to challenge pet refusals through the Tenancy Tribunal.

Can a Landlord Still Say No to Pets?

Yes - but only under specific, documented grounds.

Under the new legislation, landlords can only refuse pet requests if they can justify it with a valid reason, such as:

• Property unsuitability – The pet is not appropriate for the property type, such as a large dog in an apartment with no outdoor space.
• Health and safety risks – If the landlord or other tenants in a multi-unit dwelling have allergies or medical conditions exacerbated by pets.
• Body corporate or legal bylaws – If the property is subject to body corporate rules that prohibit pets.
• Past pet-related damage or aggressive behaviour – If the tenant has a history of pet damage or previous issues with pet care.
• Dangerous breeds – If the pet is classified as a dangerous breed under the Dog Control Act 1996.

Landlords must provide a written explanation for any pet refusal, and tenants can challenge the decision at the Tenancy Tribunal if they believe it is unfair.

What is a Pet Bond and How Will it Work?

The new law will introduce a pet bond, allowing landlords to require up to two weeks’ rent as security for potential pet-related damage. Key details include:

• Pet bonds are refundable - they can only be used for pet-related damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• The total bond (including pet bond) cannot exceed four weeks’ rent.
• Examples of covered damage: scratches on wooden floors, urine odours, chewed fixtures.
• Landlords cannot charge extra rent instead of a pet bond.

To minimise risk, landlords should ensure clear pet clauses are included in tenancy agreements - more on this below.

Can Tenants Get a Pet Mid-Tenancy?

Yes, but tenants must seek written consent from their landlord before bringing a pet into the property.

Best practice includes:

• Discussing the request early to avoid disputes.
• Creating a written agreement outlining the pet’s responsibilities.
• If refused, tenants can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal for a review.

If a tenancy agreement currently bans pets, tenants may still apply for an exception once the new law takes effect.

Why Should Landlords Consider Allowing Pets?

There are many advantages to allowing tenants with pets, including:

• Longer tenancies – Pet owners tend to stay in one place longer, reducing turnover.
• Higher demand – Pet-friendly rentals attract a wider tenant pool, making it easier to find responsible tenants.
• Higher rental income – Some tenants are willing to pay more for a pet-friendly home.
• Better property care – Tenants who can keep their pets are often happier and more responsible.

Looking for professional support? Our expert property managers can help you navigate these upcoming changes.

What Are the Risks - and How Can Landlords Manage Them?

Potential Risks of Allowing Pets:

• Property damage – Pets may scratch floors, chew furniture, or cause excessive wear.
• Noise complaints – Barking dogs or loud pets may disturb neighbours.
• Odours and allergens – Some pets leave lingering smells or allergen issues.

How to Minimise Risks:

• Include pet clauses in tenancy agreements - clearly outline pet responsibilities.
• Schedule regular property inspections to ensure compliance.
• Require carpet cleaning at the end of tenancy to manage allergens and odours.
• Ask for pet references - previous landlord recommendations can help assess responsible pet ownership.

What Should Be Included in a Pet Agreement Clause?

A well-structured pet agreement clause helps manage expectations for both landlords and tenants. Key elements should include:

• Number and type of pets permitted in the property.
• Tenant responsibility for pet-related damage.
• Expectations for noise, hygiene, and flea treatments.
• End-of-tenancy cleaning obligations.
• Consequences for breaching the agreement.

Need help drafting a pet-friendly tenancy agreement? Request a property rental appraisal today to ensure you're prepared for these upcoming changes.

Answering Landlord FAQs About Pets in Rentals

• Can I still say no to pets if my property is newly renovated? Yes, if there’s a reasonable concern about damage (e.g., fragile flooring).

• Can I refuse a specific dog breed? Yes, if the breed is classified as dangerous under the Dog Control Act 1996.

• What if my body corporate prohibits pets? You can refuse pets if the body corporate rules explicitly prohibit them.

• Can I charge extra rent instead of a pet bond? No, but you can request a pet bond, capped at two weeks’ rent.

• What if the pet causes damage - can I evict the tenant? If the tenant breaches the tenancy agreement (e.g., significant damage), you may apply to the Tenancy Tribunal.

• Can I require flea treatment or carpet cleaning? Yes, you can include this as a condition in the tenancy agreement.

We Can Help You Set Reasonable Expectations for Tenants with Pets

The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024 is a major step toward more pet-friendly rentals in New Zealand. While it introduces new responsibilities for landlords, clear agreements and reasonable policies can make it a win-win for everyone.

Start preparing for these changes now with expert guidance from our property managers. Need more details on managing rental properties? Learn more about our property management fees and services today.

Want to know more about Property Brokers' superior property management service? Check out our FREE guide here!