Pets in rentals: the rules have changed

The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 has permanently changed how pets are managed in New Zealand rentals. Cats, we’re told, remain unmoved.

There’s a bit to get your head around here, whether you’re a landlord or a tenant. The short version? Blanket “no pets” rules are out, but that doesn’t mean every rental is suddenly a free-for-all for four-legged flatmates.

Here’s what you need to know:

• No more blanket bans: You can’t use a standard “no pets” clause anymore
• Tenants still need to ask: They’ll need to put it in writing before bringing a pet home
• You’ve got 21 days to respond: Miss it, and the penalty can run to $1,500
• Pet bonds are now a thing: You can charge up to two weeks’ rent on top of the standard bond
• It’s one pet bond per property: Not one per pet, so no multiplying it by the number of paws
• Pet damage is on the tenant: They’re on the hook for anything beyond fair wear and tear, no matter whose pet did the damage
• Assistance dogs are different: Disability assist dogs are exempt from the pet bond and consent requirements altogether

Full rules are on the Tenancy Services website:
https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/starting-a-tenancy/rules-about-pets/

Already put to the test

It didn’t take long for the law to get its first real test either. In a recent Tenancy Tribunal case, a landlord declined a request for a Labrador puppy in a multi-storey unit, citing fencing, noise and damage concerns. The Tribunal wasn’t convinced. Its ruling: “no” is no longer the default. If reasonable conditions like temporary fencing or a pet bond can address the concern, landlords are expected to consider them before declining outright.

In short, refusing a pet now takes more than a gut feeling. It needs a genuine, defensible reason.

Tracking deadlines and defensible reasons already sounds like more admin than you signed up for? That’s exactly what we take off your plate. Get in touch and we’ll help you unpack it.