Feature article
Pets finally recognised as members of the family with new pet bonds and consent rules from December 1
Reforms to allow landlords to request a pet bond to tenants, and for current or new tenants to ask to keep a pet
AI summary
New rules from December 1 make rentals more pet-friendly. Landlords can now request a pet bond of up to two weeks' rent but can no longer enforce blanket "no pets" clauses in tenancy agreements.
Tenants must submit a written request to keep a pet. Landlords are required to respond within 21 days and must provide a valid reason if they refuse, such as an unsuitable property or prohibitive body corporate rules. These changes aim to help more Kiwis keep pets.
Man's best friend
What to expect from December 1
Pet-friendly tenancy rules begin on 1 December 2025
When landlords can say no to pets in their properties if:
Tips to landlords on managing tenants with pets
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