Upcoming Tenancy Law Changes: Pets in Rental Properties

New Zealand’s Residential Tenancy Act is set to change in 2025, allowing tenants to request for pets to be considered for rental properties. Though a date is yet to be announce. This shift means all landlords should take proactive steps to prepare.

What This Means for Landlords:

Tenants need written consent to keep a pet.
You will not be able to decline a tenant’s request for a pet without a valid reason. These reasons would come from relevant rules, bylaws, or concerns over the pet’s behaviour or potential for causing damage or disruption.
Landlords will be able to charge a maximum ‘pet bond’ worth 2 weeks rent to cover potential pet-related damage.
Consider other conditions such as a professional carpet clean at the end of a tenancy.

What Landlords Should Do Now:

· Review Your Insurance – Check with your provider to confirm what is covered in case of pet-related damage.

· Update Your Tenancy Agreements – Ensure your lease documents align with the upcoming law change.

We’ll keep you updated as more details emerge. In the meantime, if you have any questions about these changes, feel free to reach out.

Home & Co Property Management. Nobody knows the Wanaka rental market better.