For many Kiwis, pets are family. But for renters, finding a rental that allows pets has long been a frustrating hurdle. That is set to change, or at least shift, with the upcoming reforms to tenancy law. Below is an overview of what’s (likely) coming, how it will affect landlords and tenants, and how both sides can prepare.
What’s Changing : The Big Picture
The pet-related changes stem from the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024, which adds provisions to the existing Residential Tenancies Act. These provisions are not yet fully in effect; they will begin on a date yet to be advised.
| Change | What it means |
| Pet consent framework | Tenants must get written consent to keep a pet (unless the tenancy agreement already allows it). Landlords can refuse only on reasonable grounds |
| Pet bond allowed | Landlords may charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the general bond |
| Liability for pet damage | Tenants are liable for all damage caused by pets beyond fair wear and tear |
Here’s a closer look at the important clauses, including what is allowed, what isn’t, and conditions apply:
- Pet Consent & Prohibitions
- A tenancy agreement cannot outright prohibit pets unless the landlord can provide reasonable grounds for that prohibition.Any blanket “no pets” clause without justification becomes of no effect under the new law.
- If a tenant requests to keep a pet, the landlord must respond in writing within 21 days.
- The response must include whether the pet is approved or refused, and if approved, what reasonable conditions apply. If refused, the landlord must state the grounds for refusal.
- Landlords cannot refuse a pet without reasonable grounds, nor attach unreasonable conditions.
- The landlord can include reasonable conditions in the consent, for example requiring carpet cleaning at the end of the tenancy, or that the pet be restrained during inspections.
- Pet Bonds
- Once the pet provisions are in force, a landlord may require a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard bond. However, they can only require one pet bond during a tenancy, regardless to the number of pets.
- If rent increases, the landlord may require a top-up of the pet bond, to match what two weeks’ rent would be. On the other hand, if the rent decreases, the pet bond must be refunded so that it does not exceed two weeks’ new rent.
- If the pet dies, tenants can request a refund of the pet bond. If the tenant later requests to keep a new pet, a new pet bond may be charged.
- The bond (pet or general) may be used to cover damage costs exceeding what is covered in the general bond. The Tenancy Tribunal can order that either bond or both be used.
- Damage & Liability
From dripping taps to urgent repairs, a property manager coordinates it all:
- Tenants will be fully liable for any pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear. This includes accidental, careless, or intentional damage.
- Liability is broader than just obvious damage, it may also include more subtle issues (odours, stains, fleas) if deemed beyond normal wear and tear.
For Landlords & Property Managers
Opportunities:
- Dog or pet-friendly listings may attract a larger pool of tenants.
- Longer-term tenancies as pet owners are often less willing to move due to pet constraints.
- Clearer framework to manage pet risks (bond, conditions).
Risks & costs:
- Increased property wear, noise or complaints if pets are mismanaged.
- More administrative burden – processing written requests, assessing conditions, documenting reasons, handling bond top-ups.
- Potential for fines or unlawful act claims if procedures are handled poorly.
- Insurance policies may need to be adjusted, some insurers require pet-specific coverage for certain types of damage.
- Some properties may truly be unsuitable for pets (no fenced yard, small indoor space, shared walls), therefore landlords will need to clearly justify refusals.