Pets Guide

A Landlord’s Guide to Pets in Rental Properties

Pet ownership is common in New Zealand, and the rules around pets in rental properties changed from 1 December 2025. Landlords now need to follow specific requirements when tenants request permission to keep a pet, while still having protections available through reasonable conditions and pet bonds.

The Ray White SuperCity Rentals Pets Guide gives landlords a clear overview of the pet rules and the steps involved in managing pet requests.

Understanding Your Responsibilities as a Landlord

Under the updated rules, landlords cannot simply apply a blanket “no pets” policy. Tenants must make a written request and provide relevant information about the pet. Landlords then have 21 days to provide a written decision.

The guide explains how landlords can:

• Assess individual pet applications
• Set reasonable conditions for approval
• Request a pet bond where applicable
• Provide written reasons when declining a request
• Keep appropriate records of applications and decisions
• Address pet-related damage or tenancy issues

Pet Bonds and Reasonable Conditions

A landlord may require a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard tenancy bond. Only one pet bond can be charged per tenancy, rather than one for each pet.

Approval can also include reasonable conditions relating to matters such as:

• Flea treatment
• Professional carpet cleaning
• Pet waste removal
• Restraining pets during inspections or maintenance
• Compliance with relevant bylaws
• End-of-tenancy cleaning

Disability assistance dogs are treated differently under the rules and are not subject to the pet consent or pet bond requirements.

Handling Pet Requests Correctly

A clear process can help landlords keep good records and reduce the risk of disputes. The guide covers the pet request process from the tenant’s initial written application through to the landlord’s decision, approval conditions and pet bond requirements.

Landlords can also benefit from regular inspections, clear tenancy clauses, written communication and prompt action when pet-related damage or other issues arise.

Download Your Free Pets Guide

Complete the form below to receive your complimentary Pets Guide by email.

If you own a rental property and want help managing pet requests, tenancy matters and ongoing property management, Ray White SuperCity Rentals is here to assist.