Pets Guide

Pets are part of many households. A clear, lawful consent process helps landlords and tenants understand what has been agreed and how the home will be cared for.

Check the consent that applies

Pet rules changed on 1 December 2025. Different rules apply to pets already approved before that date, and an ongoing consent may cover a specified type and number of pets. Check the existing agreement before assuming a fresh request is needed.

Disability assist dogs have separate exemptions. Read Tenancy Services’ current pet guidance to check the rules for your situation.

Making a new pet request

Where consent is needed, provide details of the type and number of pets and why the property is suitable. The landlord must respond in writing within 21 calendar days. A refusal needs reasonable grounds and any conditions attached to approval must be reasonable.

Keep the request and written response with your tenancy records. For the process and relevant forms, see requesting pet consent.

Agree practical arrangements

Discuss the pet’s needs, the property and any lawful conditions before the pet moves in. Check the current rules before requesting a pet bond; do not assume a new bond applies to a pet already approved under earlier rules.

Keep communication clear if there are concerns about damage or how the property is being cared for. Document the issue and follow the applicable tenancy process rather than assuming every pet-related problem has the same outcome.

Our pet guide offer

Ray White Nexus Property Management’s Pet Guide is a starting point for landlords considering pet requests. It covers discussing requests, caring for the rental home, tenant responsibilities and communication about pets.

Use the form below to request the guide or ask the team about a pet request for your property. The current Tenancy Services rules linked above should be checked alongside any general guide.