PET CONSENTS AND PET BONDS
New tenancy laws will soon give tenants greater rights to keep pets, with landlords only able to decline for valid reasons. These changes apply to new tenancies only and introduce clearer rules around approvals, conditions, and pet bonds.
• Pet consent framework
• Tenant request: This must be in writing, including pet type, size, and registration details
• Landlord response: Must reply within 21 days, approving( with conditions) or refusing( with valid grounds).
• Approval conditions may include:
• A pet bond of a maximum of two weeks’ rent
• Professional carpet cleaning upon exit
• Keeping pets restrained during inspections.
• Valid reasons for refusal include:
• Inappropriate pet type or size for the property
• Property unsuitable( e. g., no fencing)
• Prohibiting bylaws or body corporate rules
• The pet has a history of aggression or damage.
• Pet bond rules
• Maximum two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard four-week bond
• Only one pet bond can be held at a time, regardless of pets owned
• The pet bond can be topped up if the weekly rent increases
• Refundable if the pet leaves or the tenancy ends without damage.
• Pet-related liabilities and fines
• Tenants are liable for pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear
• It is unlawful for landlords to withhold consent unreasonably, and for tenants to keep a pet without written consent or breach the agreed conditions.
Note that disability assistance dogs are excluded from the pet consent and bond requirements, and all changes outlined in this guide may be subject to change upon the announcement of their commencement date.
LANDLORD INFORMATION GUIDE 19