From Paws to Policy: The New Pet Rules Explained
From 1 December 2025, pets are officially moving into the rental spotlight. Tenants can get fluffier, landlords can get cleverer - thanks to the new pet bond system and clearer consent rules. The aim? Make it easier for tenants to keep pets while keeping landlords’ wallets and properties safe.
Key Changes for Landlords
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Written consent: Tenants must ask first (unless your agreement already allows pets). You must respond in writing within 21 days. Tick-tock!
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Reasonable grounds to say no: Think property unsuitability, body corporate or council rules, dangerous dogs, or tenants refusing sensible pet conditions.
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Pet bond: Charge up to two weeks’ rent as a separate bond, managed by Tenancy Services. If rent increases, you can request a top-up to keep the bond in line.
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Penalties: Say no without good reason - or take too long to reply - and you could face a fine up to $1,500. Tenants keeping pets without consent? Up to $750.
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Exemptions: Disability assistance dogs get a free pass - no consent, no pet bond.
When Can You Say No?
You can only refuse a pet request on reasonable grounds - and you have 21 days to respond. Some examples:
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Apartment too small for a Great Dane.
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Body corporate or council rules say “no pets.”
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Pet is a safety or health risk.
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Tenants refuse reasonable conditions like carpet cleaning or outdoor containment.
Refuse without good reason? Penalty. Respond late? Penalty. Simple.
Pet Damage: Who’s Responsible?
Here’s the kicker - under the new rules, tenants are fully liable for pet damage beyond fair wear and tear. Unlike normal accidental damage, which usually goes through insurance, pet damage is different:
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You can claim directly against the tenant or the pet bond.
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No insurance drama unless your policy specifically demands it.
This makes approving responsible pets less scary and gives landlords confidence to say yes - without losing sleep.
Risks and Opportunities
Risks:
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Extra wear and tear.
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Noise or neighbour complaints.
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Penalties if consent is refused without valid grounds.
Opportunities:
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Larger tenant pool - around 64% of NZ households have at least one pet.
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Longer tenancies - responsible pet owners stick around.
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Competitive edge in a tight rental market.
Handled well, these changes can attract responsible tenants, reduce vacancy, and protect your investment with a clear, fair system.
Bottom Line: Review your docs, update your processes, and be ready for 1 December 2025. Pets aren’t just cute - they’re officially part of the rental landscape. And if you play it smart, they could help your property perform even better.