With new pet bond and consent rules taking effect from 1 December 2025, now is the ideal time to prepare your rental property for tenants with pets. Pet proofing helps prevent damage, keeps pets safe, and ensures your investment remains in top condition.
Prioritise Pet Safety
If you plan to allow tenants with dogs, a fully fenced outdoor area is a key feature. Secure fencing not only protects your property but also gives tenants peace of mind that their pets are safe.
Consider simple landscaping with pet-friendly plants and a grassed area if space allows. Avoid using mulch or gravel that could be harmful to animals.
Regularly inspect and maintain fences and gates to prevent escapes or damage.
Be Aware of Toxic Plants
Some common garden plants can be toxic to pets. In New Zealand, these include tulips, rhododendron, bird of paradise, chrysanthemum, black nightshade, carnations, daffodils, foxgloves, lilies, karaka tree berries, aloe vera, and ivy.
It may not be practical to remove all of these, but landlords should inform tenants if such plants are present. Tenants can then take steps to keep their pets safe.
Secure Electrical Cords
Pets, especially young dogs or cats, can chew on electrical cords. Use cord protectors, cable clips or trunking to secure loose cables and reduce the risk of accidents. This is a small, inexpensive step that helps avoid hazards and keeps your property compliant with safety standards.
Install Suitable Flooring
Durable flooring makes a big difference in pet-friendly homes. Options such as vinyl, laminate, or tiles are ideal because they resist scratches and are easy to clean.
Hardwood floors can be suitable if they are well sealed, though sharp claws can still cause minor surface marks. Avoid carpets in high-traffic pet areas if possible.
Include Clear Pet Conditions in Tenancy Agreements
From 1 December 2025, landlords can include reasonable pet conditions in tenancy agreements. These may cover restrictions such as:
- Which areas of the property pets are allowed in.
- Cleaning or professional carpet treatment at the end of tenancy.
- The number and type of pets permitted.
Under the new rules, tenants must obtain written consent before bringing a pet onto the property, and landlords must respond within 21 days.
If you own a unit title or cross-lease property, check your body corporate or lease conditions before granting pet consent. Body corporate rules may still override tenancy agreements.
Understand the New Pet Bond Rules
From 1 December 2025, landlords will be able to charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard tenancy bond (which remains capped at four weeks).
The pet bond must be lodged through Tenancy Services and can be:
- Added when a new tenancy begins.
- Introduced later if an existing tenant gains approval to keep a pet.
- Topped up if rent increases.
- Refunded once the pet leaves the property.
Tenants will also be fully liable for all pet damage beyond fair wear and tear, providing landlords with extra assurance that their property will be protected.
What Are the Advantages of Allowing Pets?
Pet proofing your property requires some effort, but the rewards can be significant.
- Larger tenant pool: Around two-thirds of New Zealand households have pets. Allowing them increases your potential applicants.
- Longer tenancies: Tenants with pets often stay longer once settled.
- Added security: Dogs, in particular, can provide extra peace of mind for both tenants and landlords.
By pet proofing your property and setting clear expectations, you can attract responsible tenants and reduce vacancy time.
Conclusion
With the new pet bond and consent rules beginning 1 December 2025, now is the perfect time to prepare your Auckland rental for responsible pet owners. Pet proofing protects your property, supports safer tenancies, and ensures you are ready for the upcoming legal changes.
