“ Sentiment is improving, and this stability offers some breathing room – and a valuable chance to prepare for new regulatory changes that will reshape tenant relationships.”
Zac Snelling, Head of Property Management Ray White Group
NEW PET RULES ARRIVE
Huge news this month is the clear indication from Kat Watson, Head of Tenancy at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment( MBIE), that pet legislation will come into effect by December 31, with a six-week notice period.
“ With 60 per cent of New Zealand’ s households owning pets, the reform recognises what’ s long been true – companion animals are part of the social fabric, not fringe exceptions.
“ It represents a cultural reset as much as a legal one,” Snelling says.“ Pets are part of the family for more than half of our population, and landlords who adapt early will have the chance to build trust and reduce their tenant turnover. The key is to understand the process and set expectations early.”
Under the new framework, tenants can request permission to keep a pet, and landlords must respond reasonably within 21 days.
Requests must be made in writing, including details such as the pet’ s type, size, and registration.
Fines will apply for landlords who refuse to engage with their tenants or acknowledge a request.
Key provisions include:
• A pet bond capped at two weeks’ rent, separate from the standard four-week tenancy bond.
• Landlords must reply within 21 days of receipt of the request, either approving with conditions or refusing on valid grounds.
• Only one pet bond can be held at a time.
• Tenants are liable for pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear.
Snelling says now is the time to get in front of the new legislation.“ Review your tenancy agreements, talk to your tenants, and work through what will and won’ t suit your property. A proactive conversation today prevents a reactive dispute tomorrow.”
Handled well, he says, the changes can strengthen rather than strain the landlordtenant relationship.
Landlords must approve with conditions or refuse on valid grounds – such as property unsuitability, body corporate restrictions, or the pet’ s behavioural history.
RAY WHITE NOW NEW ZEALAND | 29