- enquiries@oaksproperty.co.nz
- 588 Chapel Road, East Tāmaki, Auckland 2016
- 0800 888 223
May 30, 2025 By: Oaksproperty
Pets - what works for owners and tenants
The joy, laughter, affection and care pets bring into some of our lives are irreplaceable. Some pets even double up as working animals trained specially to help people with disabilities, making them an integral part of a family.
As an owner, when you decide to rent your place, you must discuss all the conditions regarding the tenants’ having or bringing in a pet before the tenancy begins. Remember to place reasonable conditions that tenants must follow to avoid damage to your property, which the pets may cause.
- All conditions must be agreed upon by both the owner and the tenant and included in the tenancy agreement.
- If yours is a unit title, there may be restrictions on keeping pets in your body corporate, so ensure you check the rules before giving your tenant a go-ahead. Many body corporates have regulations around the number of pets allowed per apartment. Pet type and size may also be necessary, as certain breeds may be more welcome than others. As an owner, you must seek permission before a pet moves in.
- In early 2024, the New Zealand government announced that owners could soon charge an additional pet bond due to an amendment to the Residential Tenancy Act. With this change, tenants can be liable for pet damage that is more than the usual wear and tear of the house.
- With the introduction of pet bonds, it is believed that more owners will be willing to accept pets. What’s more, even for owners, tenants are likely to pay a premium for a safe home and willingly stay longer.
We have explored what owners must do and how they can benefit; as a tenant, what do you have to look out for?
- Always keep your owner informed if you are planning on bringing in a pet
- Prioritize your pet’s safety and pet-proof the home
- Ensure tenancy agreement terms are followed
- Look into pet bond legislation
Both renting your home to a family with pets and moving into a home where pets are welcomed come with challenges. Yet, when the owner and tenant are clear about the conditions and expectations, it can be a long and fulfilling partnership.
Whether you’re a pet-loving tenant or a cautious landlord, we’ve got the answers.
Reach out today at 0800 888 223 or email enquiries@oaksproperty.co.nz
