Pets in Rentals: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
By Kellie Andriessen – Newcastle Property Management
Australia’s love of pets is stronger than ever, and with new tenancy reforms now in place across NSW, it’s becoming easier for renters to keep animals at home. These changes aim to create a fairer balance between the rights of tenants and the concerns of landlords, while still protecting property value and neighbourhood harmony.
At Newcastle Property Management, we’re seeing more applications from tenants with pets — and with the right preparation and understanding of the new rules, landlords can manage these situations confidently and positively.
Understanding the New NSW Pet Rules
As of May 2025, major changes to NSW tenancy laws have made it easier for tenants to apply for pets in rental properties. While tenants must still obtain written consent before bringing an animal into the home, landlords can only refuse for specific, lawful reasons.
Under the updated laws:
- Tenants must submit a Pet Application Form to their landlord or agent.
- The landlord must respond within 21 days.
- If there’s no response within that timeframe, the pet is automatically approved.
- Landlords cannot advertise “no pets” in a property listing.
This reform encourages open communication and helps both parties understand their rights and responsibilities from the start.
When a Landlord Can Say “No”
Although pet ownership is encouraged, landlords in NSW can still refuse consent if there’s a valid reason. Examples include:
- The property is unsuitable (e.g., no fencing, limited space, or shared common areas).
- The tenant wants to keep an unreasonable number of animals.
- The animal cannot be kept humanely at the property.
- The pet would cause excessive damage or disturb neighbours.
- The animal is prohibited under local or state laws.
- The landlord lives in the same dwelling as the tenant.
If a landlord refuses, they must clearly explain which of these reasons applies — a simple “no pets allowed” is no longer acceptable.
Setting Reasonable Pet Conditions
Landlords who approve a pet can still include reasonable conditions as part of the agreement. For example:
- Requiring professional carpet cleaning or pest spray when the tenancy ends (if appropriate).
- Restricting certain animals to outdoor areas only.
- Requesting the tenant maintain the yard or garden to prevent damage.
However, landlords cannot charge higher rent or extra bond because of a pet. Any conditions must be fair, practical, and directly related to keeping the animal on the property.
Strata and Shared Properties
Tenants living in strata buildings (such as apartments or townhouses) may also need separate approval from the owners corporation, depending on the building’s by-laws. This process is independent of the landlord’s consent.
Many strata schemes are now more flexible, but tenants should always check the by-laws before applying for a pet to avoid delays or misunderstandings.
What Happens if There’s a Disagreement?
If a landlord refuses consent or sets unreasonable conditions, the tenant can:
- Discuss the issue directly with the landlord or agent, or
- Seek assistance from NSW Fair Trading, or
- Apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) within 28 days of receiving the response.
The Tribunal can order that a tenant be allowed to keep the pet, or remove any unfair conditions.
After a Pet Is Approved
Once a pet has been approved, that consent remains valid for the life of the pet, even if the landlord, agent, or lease changes.
However, if the tenant moves to a new property, they must seek consent again.
Tenants must still comply with their general responsibilities such as keeping the home clean, avoiding nuisance or damage, and maintaining good relations with neighbours. A breach of these conditions could still result in a tenancy dispute.
A Balanced Approach for Landlords
At Newcastle Property Management, we recommend that landlords take a case-by-case approach when considering pet applications. Responsible tenants with well-behaved pets can make excellent long-term renters.
You can also protect your investment by choosing a landlord insurance policy that covers pet-related damage — offering peace of mind if an accident occurs.
The Bottom Line
NSW’s updated rental laws reflect the reality that pets are part of the family. By understanding the new framework and working collaboratively, landlords can keep properties protected while supporting happier, longer-term tenancies.
If you’d like advice on managing pet applications or understanding how the new NSW rules affect your rental property, contact Kellie and the team at Newcastle Property Management — we’re here to help you navigate the changes confidently.
Call us on 49569777.