Pet Reform for Tenants New South Wales

NSW Pet Reform for Tenants: What Changed on 19 May 2025 and What It Means for Everyone

New laws making it easier for NSW tenants to keep pets took effect on 19 May 2025, as part of broader rental reforms.

They were introduced through the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 (passed by NSW Parliament on 24 October 2024) and the Residential Tenancies Amendment Regulation 2025. The legislation also ends “no grounds” terminations, but the pet provisions have been among the most welcomed.

Key Changes at a Glance

Before 19 May 2025, landlords could often refuse pets with little justification. Now there’s a clear, fairer process:

Tenants request consent using the official NSW Fair Trading Pet Application Form (Part A).
Landlords/agents have 21 days to respond in writing using Part B.
No written response within 21 days means consent is granted, with no conditions.
Landlords may only refuse on specific, limited grounds (below).
Rental ads can no longer state “no pets allowed”.
It applies to all new and existing tenancies (except purpose-built student accommodation).
Consent generally lasts for the life of the pet at that property, even if the landlord or agent changes.

Grounds for refusal

An unreasonable number of animals (generally, four or fewer is considered reasonable).
The property is unsuitable — inadequate fencing, insufficient open space or concerns for the animal’s welfare.
Damage is highly probable to exceed the rental bond (after considering tenant mitigation).
The landlord lives at the property.
It would breach council rules, strata by-laws or other laws (blanket “no pets” strata by-laws are invalid).
The tenant hasn’t agreed to reasonable conditions proposed in good faith.

Landlords can set reasonable conditions (such as professional carpet cleaning or fumigation at the end of the tenancy) but can’t demand extra bond, higher rent or insurance.

What This Means for Tenants

More certainty and fairness — recognising pets as family and their positive impact on wellbeing. If a landlord refuses without valid grounds or sets unreasonable conditions, tenants can seek NSW Fair Trading mediation or apply to NCAT within 28 days of the response. More properties are now effectively open to pet owners.

What This Means for Landlords, Property Managers and Investors

Blanket “no pets” policies are no longer viable; each request must be assessed on its merits, within strict timeframes.

Respond promptly, in writing, on the official form.
Keep up maintenance (e.g. fencing) if suitability is a concern.
Position pet-friendly properties to attract quality, long-term tenants.
Expect possible minor extra wear and tear — tenants remain responsible for damage beyond fair wear and tear.
Make sure advertising, applications and decisions comply with the new rules.

Many owners are adapting positively: pet-friendly policies can reduce vacancies and improve tenant retention.

Practical Tips for Navigating the New Rules

For tenants:

Complete the official Pet Application Form from NSW Fair Trading.
Give clear details about your pet(s), references and how you’ll manage care.
Keep records of all communications.
Contact your local Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service early if issues arise.

For landlords and agents:

Make sure your team understands the process and timeframes.
Respond to every request in writing within 21 days.
Document any refusal against the specific legislative grounds.
Consider reasonable conditions rather than outright refusal.

A Positive Step Forward

The reforms balance tenant rights with reasonable protections for owners, creating a fairer, more compassionate framework for renting in NSW. Clear communication, good record-keeping and cooperation will help everyone adapt.

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