New pet consent rules and pet bonds

Tenancy Services in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is kaitiaki (guardian) of New Zealand’s bond service.

“We are excited that pet consent rules are now in place. Many households have pets and the new rules will help more tenants enjoy the companionship and wellbeing benefits of pets, while giving landlords extra peace of mind,” says Kat Watson, Head of Tenancy Services.

The changes allow landlords to take a pet bond of up to 2 weeks’ rent in addition to the existing general bond, with clear rules for consent and liability for pet damage.

“Guidance is available on our website to help landlords and tenants understand the changes. We also have updated templates and online self-service tools,” says Kat Watson.

Tenancy Services’ online Bond Hub, and business-to-business connection for Property Management Software users, is where landlords can now:

• lodge pet bonds for new tenancies
• add a pet bond to an existing tenancy when a new pet is introduced
• add top-ups for pet bonds if the rent increases.

What changes on 1 December

• Landlords may require a pet bond up to 2 weeks’ rent, in addition to the existing general tenancy bond of a maximum of 4 weeks’ rent.
• Tenants must have the landlord’s consent to keep a pet; landlords can withhold consent on reasonable grounds and may set reasonable conditions, including charging a pet bond.
• Tenants are liable for pet damage beyond fair wear and tear.
• Tenancy Services will enable lodgement, top-ups and refunds of pet bonds and will provide updated guidance, tools and templates for landlords and tenants.

More information can be found on the Tenancy website:

Bond(external link) — Tenancy Services