For many landlords, deciding whether to allow pets is one of the trickiest parts of managing a rental property. Pets can bring both risks and rewards, and with the 2025 tenancy law changes confirmed, it is worth reviewing your position.
Setting the Rent and Finding the Right Tenant
Once your property is ready to let, the next step is finding tenants and setting the rent. Getting this right helps you attract reliable tenants quickly and avoid long vacancies.
When you list a property, you only have a short window to capture attention. If you set the rent too high, good tenants may pass you by. If it is too low, you may miss out on returns.
Tenancy Services publishes bond data showing median rents for different suburbs and property types. This is useful but slightly delayed (up to six months) and does not reflect quality factors like renovations or location appeal.
For a real-time picture, check current listings on rental portals and talk with a professional property manager. The Crockers team can provide up-to-date insights on what similar Auckland homes are renting for right now.
What the New Law Says About Pets and Pet Bonds
From 1 December 2025, new rules under the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 will make it easier for tenants to keep pets while giving landlords more protection.
Landlords will be able to:
- Require a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent in addition to the general bond (which remains capped at four weeks).
- Approve or decline pet requests, but only on reasonable grounds.
- Set reasonable conditions for keeping pets, such as cleaning requirements or outdoor containment.
Tenants must obtain consent before keeping a pet, and landlords must respond in writing within 21 days. Failure to respond or to give a valid reason for refusal can result in a fine.
The pet bond must be lodged through Tenancy Services, and can be topped up if rent increases or refunded when the pet leaves.
These changes aim to balance tenant access with landlord protection and will apply to new and existing tenancies from December 2025.
Managing Risk When Allowing Pets
Pets come in all shapes and sizes, and not all present the same level of risk. For example:
- Small adult dogs or cats are generally less likely to cause damage than young or large-breed animals.
- Indoor-only cats or older pets often make ideal tenants.
- Pet references or a “Pet CV” can help you assess suitability.
If your property is part of a body corporate or other shared ownership structure, confirm that pets are permitted before approving a tenancy. Always obtain written consent where required.
Ask for a Pet CV
Encourage potential tenants with pets to provide a “Pet CV”. This can include:
- The pet’s name, breed, age, size, and temperament.
- Vaccination and registration records.
- A short note from a previous landlord or vet confirming good behaviour.
- A photo to make the application memorable.
A Pet CV helps landlords make informed decisions and builds confidence that the tenant is responsible.
Choosing the Right Tenant for Your Property
Keeping an open mind is key to finding the best tenant. Under the Human Rights Act, landlords must assess tenants on their merits and avoid unlawful discrimination.
Not every property suits every household type. A small inner-city apartment may appeal to professionals or couples, while a large fenced home may attract families. Likewise, some properties are better suited for flatmates than single tenants.
Renting to groups can also offer security. Multiple incomes can provide stability if one tenant’s circumstances change. Ensure each tenant is named on the tenancy agreement and specify the total number of occupants allowed.
Conclusion
Allowing pets can open your property to a wider tenant pool and encourage longer tenancies, provided you manage the risks. With pet bond laws taking effect on 1 December 2025, now is the perfect time to review your pet policy, update agreements, and prepare for the change.
