Pet law changes are coming. Let’s fetch the facts.
New laws around pets in rentals are set to take effect from 1 December 2025. The changes, part of a broader update to tenancy legislation, will make it easier for tenants to keep pets - and for landlords to be fairly protected when they do. Here’s what you need to know, and how to prepare.
What’s changing?
Under the new rules, tenants will be allowed to keep pets if:
- The tenancy agreement already allows it, or
- They’ve obtained written consent from the landlord
As a landlord, you still have the right to refuse a pet request - but only if you can cite reasonable grounds.
Examples of this could be: that the property isn’t suitably fenced or sized for the pet; a body corporate or local bylaw prohibits animals; or the pet is a breed that’s dangerous or has previously attacked.
Once a tenant submits a written request, you’ll have 21 days to respond. If you approve, you can attach conditions (such as a maximum number of pets, specific cleaning requirements, or a pet bond).
Note: Tenants who already have a pet on 1 December 2025 won’t need new consent and cannot be charged a pet bond, provided they already have written permission, or their tenancy agreement allows pets (or is silent on the matter).
Contact your local property manager to learn more.
Introducing the pet bond
From 1 December 2025, landlords will be able to collect a pet bond of up to two weeks rent, in addition to the general bond (currently set at a maximum of four weeks rent).
Just like the general bond:
- It must be listed in the tenancy agreement
- It must be lodged with Tenancy Services
- It can be topped up if rent increases
Until then, no pet bond can be collected - but you can start planning how to implement it once the rules go live.
Chat with your local branch about the pet laws.
Who covers pet damage?
Under the new rules, tenants will be fully liable for any pet-related damage - even if it wasn’t caused by their own pet - beyond fair wear and tear.
This includes direct or indirect damage (for example: a dog chewing up a wooden deck, persistent urine stains on carpet, or damage from claws on laminate flooring) and applies to all tenants named on the agreement.
What next?
Even though the changes aren’t yet in force, they will be as of 1 December 2025. So now’s a great time to:
- Review your current tenancy agreements and pet policies
- Consider whether your property is suitable for pets
- Decide what conditions you might require if you approve a pet request
- Check your landlord insurance for pet-related coverage
- Plan how you’ll handle pet bond collection and documentation
It’s also worth considering the upside: pet-friendly rentals are often in high demand, and tenants with pets tend to stay longer and treat properties with care. Having a fair, transparent process in place helps build trust from the start.
Final word
Need help navigating the upcoming changes in legislation?
Whether you’re already working with us or not, our Property Management teams are highly knowledgeable in this area, and always here to support.
Get in touch with your local Barfoot & Thompson branch, or talk to your dedicated property manager today.
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