Pet Reform for Tenants New South Wales

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

In a significant shift for the New South Wales rental market, new laws making it easier for tenants to keep pets came into effect on 19 May 2025. These changes form part of broader rental reforms and represent a meaningful move toward more pet-inclusive housing across the state.

The reforms were introduced through the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 (passed by NSW Parliament on 24 October 2024) and given operational detail in the Residential Tenancies Amendment Regulation 2025. While the legislation modernises several aspects of renting — including the end of “no grounds” terminations — the pet provisions have been among the most welcomed by tenants and animal welfare advocates.

Key Changes at a Glance

Prior to 19 May 2025, landlords could often refuse pets with little or no justification, and “no pets” clauses or advertising were common. The new framework introduces a structured, fairer process:

  • Tenants must now use the official NSW Fair Trading Pet Application Form (Part A) to request consent.

  • Landlords/agents have 21 days to provide a written response using Part B of the same form.

  • If no written response is received within 21 days, consent is automatically granted with no conditions.

  • Landlords may only refuse a request on specific, limited grounds set out in the legislation. These include:

    • The property would then have an unreasonable number of animals (generally, four or fewer animals is considered reasonable).

    • The property is unsuitable due to inadequate fencing, insufficient open space, or concerns for the animal’s welfare.

    • It is highly probable the animal would cause damage exceeding the value of the rental bond (after considering tenant mitigation measures).

    • The landlord resides at the property.

    • Keeping the animal would breach council rules, strata by-laws, or other laws (note: blanket “no pets” strata by-laws are invalid).

    • The tenant has not agreed to reasonable conditions proposed in good faith.

  • Rental advertisements can no longer state “no pets allowed”.

  • The changes apply to all new and existing tenancies (except purpose-built student accommodation).

  • Once consent is granted, it generally continues for the life of the pet at that property, even if the landlord or agent changes.

Landlords may still impose reasonable conditions (such as professional carpet cleaning or fumigation at the end of the tenancy where appropriate), but they cannot demand extra bond, higher rent, or insurance as a condition of approval.


Tenants and Pets RTA New Rights

What This Means for Tenants

For renters with pets — or those hoping to welcome one — the reform provides greater certainty and fairness. Pets are increasingly recognised as important members of the family, and these laws acknowledge their positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.

Tenants now have a clear pathway to request approval and stronger protections against arbitrary refusals. If a landlord refuses without valid grounds or imposes unreasonable conditions, tenants can seek resolution through NSW Fair Trading mediation or apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) within 28 days of the response.

The changes also mean more properties are effectively open to pet owners, expanding housing options in a competitive market.

What This Means for Landlords, Property Managers and Investors

For property owners and agents, the reforms require updated processes and a shift in mindset. Blanket “no pets” policies are no longer viable, and each request must be assessed on its individual merits within strict timeframes.

Key implications include:

  • The need for prompt, documented responses using the official form.

  • Greater emphasis on property maintenance (e.g., fencing) if suitability is raised as a concern.

  • Opportunity to position pet-friendly properties as a point of difference to attract quality, long-term tenants.

  • Potential for minor increases in wear and tear, though tenants remain responsible for damage beyond fair wear and tear.

  • Compliance focus: agents and landlords must ensure advertising, application processes, and decision-making align with the new rules.

Many landlords and property managers are adapting positively, recognising that pet-friendly policies can reduce vacancy periods and support better tenant retention.

Practical Tips for Navigating the New Rules

For tenants:

  • Download and complete the official Pet Application Form from the NSW Fair Trading website.

  • Provide clear details about your pet(s), references, and how you will manage care and any potential impacts on the property.

  • Keep records of all communications.

  • If issues arise, contact your local Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service early.

For landlords and agents:

  • Ensure all team members understand the new process and timeframes.

  • Respond to every pet request in writing within 21 days.

  • Clearly document reasons if refusing, referencing the specific legislative grounds.

  • Consider reasonable conditions rather than outright refusal where possible.

A Positive Step Forward

The 19 May 2025 pet reforms mark a welcome evolution in NSW rental law. They balance tenant rights with reasonable protections for property owners, creating a fairer and more compassionate framework for renting in New South Wales.

As the rental landscape continues to modernise, clear communication, good record-keeping, and a willingness to work together will help both tenants and landlords navigate these changes successfully.

Crew Agency Disclaimer This article is provided by Crew Agency for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Rental laws can be complex and fact-specific. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, please contact NSW Fair Trading, a qualified legal practitioner, or your local Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service. Always refer to the most current official legislation and NSW Fair Trading resources, as requirements may be updated. Crew Agency accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this information.

References

NSW Government (2025) Changes to rental laws. Available at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/fair-trading/news/changes-to-rental-laws (Accessed: 24 May 2026).

NSW Government (2025) Keeping a pet in a rental property. Available at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/rules/pets-rentals (Accessed: 24 May 2026).

New South Wales (2024) Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 (NSW).

New South Wales (2025) Residential Tenancies Amendment Regulation 2025 (NSW).

Tenants NSW (2026) Tenancy law has changed in NSW. Available at: https://www.tenants.org.au/resource/law-change (Accessed: 24 May 2026).

This insight article is part of Crew Agency’s commitment to keeping our clients and the broader community informed about important changes in the NSW property and rental market.

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