Move over socks and scented candles, this Christmas, the hottest gift under the tree might be a four-legged bundle of joy!
That’s right, thanks to the Government’s new pet-friendly tenancy rules, pets are about to become the most popular present of 2025. And I, for one, couldn’t be happier.
From 1 December 2025, tenants across New Zealand will find it easier to keep pets in rental properties, thanks to the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024. These changes aim to remove barriers to rental access for tenants with pets, while mitigating landlords’ concerns about pet-related damage.
What changes on 1 December?
- Pet Bonds: Landlords can now charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard bond, which helps cover any pet-related damage.
- Written Consent: Tenants must get written permission to keep a pet. Landlords have 21 days to respond and can only refuse on reasonable grounds.
- Reasonable Conditions: Landlords can set conditions (e.g., no Great Danes in a studio apartment), but they must be fair.
- Liability for Damage: Tenants are responsible for all pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear.
- Existing Pets: If a tenant already has a pet and the agreement allows it (or is silent), no new consent or pet bond is needed.
- Disability Assist Dogs: Always allowed. No bond. No questions asked.
As someone who’s spent years in property management, I’ve seen firsthand how pets, especially dogs, can transform lives. They reduce loneliness, encourage exercise, and even help kids develop empathy. The mental and physical health benefits are undeniable.
I’m all for these changes. They strike a balance between protecting landlords and allowing tenants to live with their furry companions.
Tenants will also be allowed to make minor changes to their homes to make them more pet-friendly, such as installing a cat flap or fencing a small area. These changes must be reasonable and reversible. Landlords, take note: don’t go sniffing around for loopholes. The spirit of the law is clear: be fair and be flexible.
The Dog Control Act 1996 still applies, meaning all dogs must be registered; owners must ensure their dogs are under control and not causing a nuisance; and councils can enforce rules regarding dangerous dogs, barking, and roaming. So, while tenants can now keep pets more easily, they must also be responsible pet owners. That’s where education and good communication come in.
Pets reduce loneliness, encourage exercise, and even help kids develop empathy. The mental and physical health benefits are undeniable.
So, this Christmas, expect a surge in wagging tails and squeaky toys. But more importantly, expect happier tenants, healthier communities, and a more compassionate rental market.
At Property Brokers, we’re embracing these changes with open arms (and maybe a few chew toys). Join us on 26 November at 1.00 pm for our 'Pets, Property & the Law' webinar, where we’ll unpack the new rental pet regulations and share tips for landlords and tenants alike. Click here to register!
