Pet Bonds in New Zealand

New rules around pets in rental properties are on the horizon, and with them comes changes to the pet consent rules and the introduction of pet bonds in New Zealand. These changes are expected to take effect this year, but until then, the current tenancy rules remain unchanged.

When do the changes apply?

The new pet consent and pet bond rules will only apply once the law officially takes effect. The exact date has not yet been announced, though it is expected later in 2025. Tenants with pets already living in rental properties before the law change will not be affected, provided they were allowed by the landlord or not specifically prohibited in the tenancy agreement.

Current rules about pets

Under the current law, landlords can choose whether or not to allow pets. Until the new law is in place, no changes can be made to existing tenancy agreements regarding pet bonds or pet-related fees.  

Proposed pet consent rules

When the new law come into effect:

• Tenants must obtain written consent from their landlord before keeping a pet
• Landlords must have reasonable grounds to decline a request - for example, if the property is unsuitable for pets or restricted by local bylaws. 
• Landlords must respond within 21 days to any written request from a tenant.
• Fair conditions can be set when granting consent, such as requiring carpet cleaning at the end of the tenancy or payment of a pet bond. 
• If a landlord unreasonably refuses consent or fails to respond within 21 days, they may face a fine of up to $1,500.
• Tenants who keep a pet without consent could face a fine of up to $750.

Pet bond details

Once approved, landlords will be able to request a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard tenancy bond. Pet bonds will be lodged and managed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), in the same way as standard tenancy bonds.

Tenant responsibilities

Tenants will remain responsible for any pet-related damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear, even if the damage is caused by a pet belonging to another tenant. “Pet-related damage” includes anything resulting from keeping a pet, not only direct damage caused by the animal. In a shared property, all tenants may be held jointly responsible for pet-related damage. 

What this means for landlords and tenants

These upcoming changes reflect a shift toward making rental properties more pet-friendly, while ensuring landlords can still manage risk and protect their investments.

For landlords, understanding the limits and requirements around pet consent and pet bonds will be important once the rules take effect. For tenants, knowing the process for requesting pet consent and the conditions that may apply will help avoid misunderstandings or penalties.

Until the new rules are confirmed, the existing tenancy laws remain in place, and pet bonds cannot yet be charged.

For up-to-date information on pet consent and pet bonds in New Zealand and current tenancy rules, visit the Tenancy Services website.

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