New tenancy laws in 2025 will make it easier for tenants to have pets in rentals. Learn how the new pet rules, bonds, and approval process will affect tenants and property owners across New Zealand.
New tenancy laws are on the way that will make it easier for tenants to have pets in rental properties. The changes are part of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 and are expected to take effect later in 2025. The outline below is based on the guidance we’ve received to date. Once the official details are released, there may be some updates - we’ll make sure to let you know as soon as they’re confirmed.
Tenants will still need permission to have a pet; however, property owners will now need to give a good reason to refuse these requests.
Blanket “no pets” rules won’t be allowed unless there’s a fair reason, such as the property being unsuitable or a body corporate rule that bans animals.
Property managers will need to respond to pet requests within 21 days and give their answer in writing.
Once the new law starts, property managers will be able to ask for a pet bond, up to two weeks’ rent, to cover possible damage caused by animals. This will be on top of the usual bond and must be lodged with Tenancy Services.
*Until the new rules take effect, pet bonds can’t be charged.*
Tenants will be responsible for any damage caused by their pets beyond fair wear and tear. That means keeping pets well-behaved and the home clean. Property managers can now also set fair conditions, such as asking for carpets to be cleaned at the end of a tenancy or that pets be restrained during inspections (or any scheduled maintenance).
The Government hasn’t confirmed the start date yet, but the changes are expected later in 2025. We will make sure to keep you informed, once we are notified of a date, we will make sure all property owners know.
These will apply to new tenancies from that date onwards (not existing agreements). However, existing tenancies can also put through a formal request to their property manager under this new pet law, the same ‘good reason’ policy will apply for this circumstance.
*You won’t need to manage these changes; we’ll take care of the process and keep you informed.*
The goal of these changes is to make renting with pets more accessible, while keeping homes protected and relationships between property owners and tenant's fair.
For more updates, check tenancy.govt.nz.
We created Comprendé to lift the standard of services that property owners, buyers, and tenants can expect.
Anita Smith, Senior Property Manager, Comprende'.
It's our job to support owners and tenants through these changes, so we’ve collated our thoughts on a few key topics below.
