Pets in Rentals: Consent, Pet Bonds and Damage Rules
Published: 23 October 2026
New Zealand's tenancy rules set a clear process for pet consent requests, reasonable conditions, a 2-week pet bond and tenant liability for pet-related damage.
Key Takeaways
- • Tenants need written permission to keep a pet unless already allowed in the tenancy agreement
- • Landlords cannot unreasonably withhold consent, but can decline on set reasonable grounds
- • Landlords can charge a pet bond of up to 2 weeks' rent on top of the 4-week general bond
- • Tenants are liable for pet damage beyond fair wear and tear
Written consent and reasonable grounds to decline
A tenant must request permission in writing before bringing a pet onto the premises. Landlords must respond in writing within the statutory timeframe and cannot refuse without a good reason. Reasonable grounds to decline a pet request include:
- • The property is unsuitable for the animal (such as lack of secure fencing, small indoor area or no outdoor space)
- • Body corporate operational rules, cross-lease covenants or council bylaws prohibit the animal
- • The animal has a history of causing damage, aggression or neighbourhood nuisance
- • The number or size of pets requested is unsuitable for the dwelling
See our Auckland landlord guide to pets in rentals for how Climber vets pet references and sets up the agreement.
How the 2-week pet bond works
When a landlord consents to a pet, they can require a pet bond of up to 2 weeks' rent in addition to the standard 4-week bond. The pet bond must be lodged with Tenancy Services.
Consent can also include reasonable written conditions — such as naming the specific animal approved, requiring council microchipping and registration for dogs, and requiring professional carpet cleaning or pest treatment if pet odours or fleas are present when the tenancy ends.
Inspecting and claiming for pet damage
Tenants are responsible for damage caused by their pets beyond fair wear and tear. Chewed skirtings, scratched doors, stained carpets and dug-up lawns are tenant responsibilities.
Strong ingoing photos and three-monthly routine inspections make sure any pet wear is spotted early rather than discovered at the exit inspection.
Questions landlords ask
How much is the pet bond in New Zealand?
A landlord can require a pet bond of up to 2 weeks' rent in addition to the standard 4-week general bond when giving consent for a pet.
Can a landlord decline a tenant's pet request?
Yes, on reasonable grounds — such as body corporate rules prohibiting pets, lack of fencing or outdoor space, council bylaws, or a history of pet damage or nuisance.
Do disability assist dogs require pet consent or a pet bond?
No. Certified disability assist dogs are exempt from pet consent rules and pet bonds under the Residential Tenancies Act and Human Rights Act.