Pets and Rentals – What Landlords & Tenants Need to Know

Change is coming to owners and tenants after Dec 1 2025

by Carrie Metcalfe on Nov 30, 2025
Article appears under: iRentProperty,

Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, the way pets are treated under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) is about to change. At iRentProperty we believe in keeping things clear, practical and forward-facing — so here’s a plain-language breakdown of what’s coming, what it means for you, and how you can prepare.

What’s Changing?

The changes stem from the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024, which includes provisions specifically related to pets.

Here’s a summary of the key points in relation to pets:

• From December 1^st 2025, Landlords are only be able to refuse pets on reasonable grounds.
• Suggested reasons for not allowing pets could be because it breaches the body corp rules or the breed of animal being unsuitable for the property e.g a large dog in a small, unfenced property. Until legal precedence is made, the word ‘reasonable’ is open to interpretation.  
• Tenants will need written consent from the landlord (unless the tenancy agreement already provides for pets).
• A new type of “pet bond” may be charged if pets are approved — up to a maximum of 2 weeks’ rent (in addition to the standard bond). This only applies to tenancies starting after 1 December 2025.
• The new pet bond cannot be charge retrospectively to existing tenants who get a pet

What That Means for Landlords (An iRentProperty Perspective)

1. There are still plenty of tenants who don’t’ have pets, and these tenants can be given preference during letting processes.
2. We suspect there may be a portion of tenants who apply for properties as non-pet owners but quickly put in a 21-day request to have a pet. These can only be refused on reasonable grounds.
3. Prepare your property for pet-friendly tenancy – Consider things like durable flooring, fencing, easy-clean surfaces, etc.
4. Insurance and damage control – Ensure you’re covered for pet damage or consider the pet bond as a tool to offset risk. If you allow pets, requiring conditions (e.g., professional carpet cleaning at end of tenancy) can help manage your risk.
5. Communicate with your property manager – At iRentProperty, our team will help you interpret the “reasonable grounds” for refusal, set up fair-and-transparent criteria, and advise on any conditions or additional bond you might require.

Final Thoughts

Although pets are relatively uncommon within our portfolio, there is merit in embracing these changes. Rotorua has a high rate of pet ownership, and pets can add value in terms of tenants feeling more at home and staying longer. Long term tenants often means a better return on investment.

The pet-related reforms in the RTA reflect a shift towards more balanced tenancy arrangements — recognising the reality that many tenants want pets, and many landlords are open to them — while still maintaining property protection and clarity of responsibilities.

At iRentProperty, our aim is to make this transition as smooth as possible for you. Whether you’re a landlord considering pet-friendly tenancy options, or a tenant with a beloved companion, we’re here to advise, manage risk, and keep things compliant.

If you have any further questions, just reach out.