Happy Homes, Happy Pets — Wendell Welcomes the New Pet Rules
From 1 December 2025, new laws will change how pets are managed in rental properties across New Zealand. The goal is to make it easier for tenants to keep pets — while giving property owners confidence that their homes will still be well cared for.
It’s a significant shift, but one that reflects the way many Kiwis already live: pets are part of the family.
At Wendell, we’ve long supported responsible pet ownership and believe that, with the right communication and safeguards, pets and rentals can happily coexist.
What’s Changing
Under the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act (Pets and Bonds) 2024, tenants will have the right to request permission to keep a pet — and property owners can’t unreasonably refuse.
Owners will have 21 days to resolve any pet request.
They can still decline if there are reasonable grounds, such as:
- The property being unsuitable (no fencing, limited outdoor space, or shared complex)
- Restrictions under body corporate or council rules
- The animal being classified as dangerous or menacing under the Dog Control Act 1996
- Limitations in an insurance policy
If a pet is approved, an additional pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent may be charged on top of the standard four-week bond.
Why It Matters
These changes aim to strike a balance between freedom and responsibility.
Tenants gain the ability to request pets openly, while owners retain the right to protect their investment through fair assessment and clear conditions.
While a pet bond helps, serious damage can still exceed that amount — carpets, doors, lawns, or odour remediation can add up.
That’s why insurance and clear agreements will remain important for everyone involved.
How Wendell Is Supporting the Change
We’ve updated our internal systems, training, and templates so our property managers can guide both owners and tenants through the new process smoothly and fairly.
Every pet request will involve:
- A full review of property suitability
- Communication between all parties to agree on conditions
- A formal Pet Agreement outlining expectations for cleaning, maintenance, and behaviour
- Correct lodgement of any additional bond
By managing each request carefully, we help reduce risk while supporting stable, long-term tenancies — whether they include humans, pets, or both.
Protecting Homes and Animals
Even well-behaved pets can occasionally cause wear or damage. That’s where Real Landlord Insurance provides excellent cover options for owners, including pet-related damage, loss of rent, and legal costs.
Tenants, meanwhile, are encouraged to have contents insurance that includes pet damage cover. This ensures any mishaps are dealt with quickly and fairly.
For those considering adding a pet, a little preparation goes a long way:
- Check your local council rules — for example, Auckland dogs must be microchipped within two months of registration (Auckland Council guide)
- Learn about responsible ownership through the SPCA (Pet Care Advice)
- Thinking about adoption? The SPCA Auckland team has many animals looking for loving homes (Adopt a Pet)
- If you’re in New Zealand on a visa, check that your visa type allows pet ownership or importation before making commitments
The 2025 pet law reforms are about fairness, transparency, and good communication — values we’ve always shared at Wendell. With the right structure, insurance, and understanding on both sides, pets can enhance tenancies rather than complicate them.
We’re ready to help owners, tenants, and the wider community navigate these changes confidently. A well-managed home and a well-loved pet can be the perfect match.