These long-anticipated changes aim to make it easier for tenants to keep pets while providing landlords with new protections against pet-related damage.
Key changes from 1 December 2025
Here’s what landlords need to know:
- Pet bond introduced
Landlords will be able to request a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the existing general bond. The pet bond will be managed by Tenancy Services, just like regular bonds - covering lodgement, top-ups, and refunds.
- Landlord consent required for pets
Tenants must obtain written consent from their landlord before keeping a pet. Landlords must respond within 21 days of receiving a request and can only refuse consent on reasonable grounds.
- Reasonable conditions may be attached
Landlords can include reasonable conditions when granting consent - these should reflect the nature of the pet and the property. For example, limiting the number of pets, restricting pets to outdoor areas, or requiring professional carpet cleaning at the end of tenancy may be acceptable if justified.
- Tenant liability for damage
Tenants will be liable for all pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear.
- Existing pets are protected
Tenants who already have a pet on 1 December 2025 won’t need to seek new consent or pay a pet bond if:
- they already have written permission,
- their tenancy agreement allows pets, or
- the agreement is silent on pets.
Disability assist dogs are always allowed and never require consent or a bond.
What landlords should do now
Review tenancy templates and policies Prepare to include pet clauses and reasonable conditions in your tenancy agreements.
Plan for pet bonds Familiarise yourself with the new bond process and how to manage top-ups and refunds online.
Communicate with tenants If you have existing tenants with pets, there’s no need to make immediate changes, but make sure your records reflect current permissions.
Stay informed Detailed resources and official guidance will be published on Tenancy Services ahead of December 2025.
As always, myRent will keep landlords updated as more details and tools become available to help you stay compliant and in control.
More information
Government announcement: Pet bonds for renters start 1 December | Beehive.govt.nz
MBIE factsheet: New pet rules for tenancies
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law in New Zealand. If you require legal advice, you should seek independent legal counsel. myRent.co.nz does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
