Pets are part of life for a lot of households — and increasingly, part of the rental conversation in NSW. The rules around pets in rental properties have shifted in recent years, and they continue to. Here's a clear-eyed look at how it works and how we manage pet applications at Hunter PM.
What the law says
In NSW, tenants are required to ask for permission before keeping a pet at a rental property — but the framework around what landlords can do with that request has tightened. Under recent reforms, landlords can't unreasonably refuse a pet, and refusals need to be based on legitimate grounds.
Legitimate grounds typically include things like:
- The property genuinely isn't suitable (e.g. no fenced yard for a large dog)
- Strata or body corporate by-laws prohibit it
- The number or type of pets isn't reasonable for the property
- The applicant has provided false information
What landlords can't do is refuse simply because they "don't like pets" or because of generic concerns about damage.
Why the pet application matters
We use a formal pet application form for every request because it works in everyone's interest. It captures:
- The species, breed, age and number of animals
- Whether the pet is desexed, registered and vaccinated
- Whether it's been kept in rentals before (with references)
- Photos
- Vet contact details
A well-completed pet application is the difference between a quick yes and a back-and-forth that delays things by weeks. If you're applying with us and you've got the documentation ready, we can usually turn around an approval quickly.
What about damage?
This is the most common concern from owners and the most common myth from tenants.
In NSW, landlords can't charge an additional pet bond — bond is capped at four weeks rent regardless of pets. What they (and we, on their behalf) can do is hold the tenant responsible for any damage caused by the pet at end of tenancy. Pet-caused damage isn't fair wear and tear, and it can be claimed against the bond like any other damage.
A reasonable approach we recommend to owners: take detailed entry condition reports, schedule routine inspections, and trust the process. The vast majority of tenants with pets are excellent — often better than tenants without, because they're aware of the privilege and don't want to lose it.
A note on assistance animals
Assistance animals are not "pets" under the law. A registered guide dog, hearing dog or other assistance animal is allowed by right and doesn't require landlord approval. Discrimination on this basis is unlawful.
Tips if you're applying
- Get your paperwork together first — vet records, registration, photos
- Be upfront. If your dog has chewed something at a previous rental, mention it and explain how you've addressed it
- References from previous landlords or property managers go a long way
If you're a Hunter PM tenant or applicant and want to start a pet application, ask your property manager for the form — or it's available on our website.