Pet-friendly tenancy rules begin on 1 December 2025

A family with two young daughters stand in their backyard, cuddling together. One of the girls is holding a small dog.

Published 29 Oct 25

From 1 December 2025, new rules will make it easier for tenants to keep pets, while providing landlords with greater peace of mind.

The changes, signalled last year, have now been locked in by Cabinet to give the sector time to prepare. From 1 December, landlords will be able to require a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the existing general bond. Clear rules will set out pet request and consent requirements, as well as tenant liability for pet damage.

To support the new rules, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has included pet bond functionality in its new tenancy bond system. The bond system will enable landlords and tenants to lodge pet bonds for new tenancies, add a pet bond to an existing tenancy when a new pet is introduced, top-up a pet bond if the rent increases, and refund a pet bond if the pet is no longer at the property.

These changes aim to remove barriers to rental access for tenants with pets, while mitigating landlords’ concerns about pet-related damage.

What changes on 1 December?

  • Landlords may require a pet bond up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the existing general tenancy bond.
  • Tenants must have their landlord’s consent to keep a pet; landlords can only withhold consent on reasonable grounds and may set reasonable conditions.
  • Tenants are liable for the full cost of pet damage that is beyond fair wear and tear.
  • MBIE will enable lodgement, top-ups, and refunds of pet bonds and will provide updated guidance and forms ahead of commencement.

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