Government announces proposed pet-related changes to tenancy laws
15 April 2024
The Government today announced that it is proposing to introduce pet bonds and other pet-related changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (The Act).
The proposed pet-related changes to the Act will:
- introduce a pet bond (set at a maximum of 2 weeks' rent) that can be charged in addition to the existing bond
- make tenants liable for all pet damage to properties beyond fair wear and tear. This means a tenant is fully liable for any accidental or careless damage caused by pets, as well as any intentional damage, and
- require that tenants may only have a pet or pets with the consent of the landlord, who can withhold consent on reasonable grounds.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) administers the tenancy bond system, and will be responsible for collecting, holding and refunding pet bonds.
More information about the changes:
Residential Tenancies Act 1986 Amendments: Making it easier for tenants to keep pets(external link) — Te Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development
Pet bonds a win/win for renters and landlords(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz
