Pet Policies and Renting: Expert Advice from Property Managers

With vacancy rates at record lows across the country, securing a rental in an increasingly competitive market isn’t always easy. Beyond rental history, references and income, pet ownership can be a sticking point for some rentals and body corporate organisations.

According to the RSPCA, there are approximately 29 million pets in Australia, and almost 69% of households currently own at least one pet. Since renters also make up roughly 31% of household dwellers, it’s safe to say that this is an important issue.

In Australia, pet rental policies differ depending on the property’s location. This is why there’s all the more reason to familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations in your state/territory. If you’re currently dealing with this situation and need some information, we’re here to help!

What are the Current Pet Rental Laws?

The first thing to note is that Australia’s pet rental laws are not governed by any federal legislation or body. In fact, each state and territory has its distinct approach to this sometimes contentious issue. 

As it currently stands, Victoria and Queensland are the only two states that have introduced binding legislation for pet ownership in rental properties. In every other location, pet approval generally lies at the discretion of the rental provider (landlord). 

Across the board, pet approval is often much easier for houses than apartment and unit blocks. However, one rule can be applied to all cases; as the renter, always ensure that you notify the landlord of your pets during the application phase. This will ultimately save you from any hassle moving forward.

Pet Rental Policies by State

If you’re a pet owner that’s planning or about to apply for a rental, start by familiarising yourself with the state’s specific laws and regulations. Let’s quickly explore each state’s approach and any laws that are relevant:

Victoria

In the state of Victoria, tenants who wish to take pets with them and enter into a leasing agreement must fill out what’s known as a ‘pet request form’. At this stage, the rental provider must provide the applicant with a good reason why pet ownership is being refused. 

The step-by-step process involves

1. Completing the request form (one form for each individual pet)
2. Giving that form to the rental provider
3. Keeping a copy for their own records

After this form is completed and sent, the retinal provider then has 14 days to respond and make a final decision.

Queensland

Much like the State of Victoria, Queensland tenants need to fill out and submit a pet request form before entering into their leasing agreement. In 2022, the QLD State Government also introduced laws making it harder for landlords to refuse tenants with pets.

However, this doesn’t mean every pet owner is guaranteed to be successful in their application. A landlord still has the right to refuse an application based on security grounds, body corporate rules, or the type of pet.
As leading property managers on the Sunshine Coast, we’re well versed in the various rental laws in the state of Queensland. Whether you’re a prospective tenant or a landlord, you can always reach out to us for advice on pet ownership, or any other questions you may have.

New South Wales

As a pet owner in New South Wales, there are currently no laws that require tenants to request permission from the landlord. Unfortunately, there are measures in place that allow landlords to include a clause in the leasing agreement that explicitly bans pets. 

What does this mean? Essentially, the decision then falls to the discretion of individual landlords or the stance of the building’s strata real estate group. 

Tasmania

In Tasmania, pet ownership in rental properties is primarily at the discretion of the landlord. Unlike Victoria and Queensland, there are no binding laws that require the owner to consider pet applications. 

However, tenants are encouraged to be upfront about their pets during the application process to avoid any future disputes. Landlords may request additional pet-related conditions to cover potential damages, such as extra cleaning fees or a pet bond.

South Australia

There are no specific laws that mandate landlords to accept tenants with pets. The decision to allow pets lies solely with the landlord. It is advisable for tenants to negotiate pet ownership terms before signing the lease. 

Prospective tenants may also be required to pay a pet bond or agree to additional terms regarding pet management within the property.

Western Australia

Western Australia has a more structured approach to pet ownership in rental properties. While there is no legislation that forces landlords to accept pets, the state allows for a pet bond to be charged. This bond, which is capped at $260, is intended to cover any potential damage caused by the pet. 

As in other states, tenants should be transparent about their pets during the application process and seek approval from the landlord.

Northern Territory

In the Northern Territory, there are no specific laws governing pet ownership in rental properties. The decision to allow pets is left to the discretion of the landlord. Tenants are encouraged to discuss their pet ownership upfront and may need to agree to additional conditions or pay a pet bond to secure their rental application.

Tips for Pet Owners

If you’re a pet owner and trying to secure a rental, we’ve compiled some quick tips to help you put the best foot forward.

Check Local Guidelines

As we covered above, different states have their own distinct laws and guidelines. This is why it’s always a good idea to familiarise yourself with the laws in your area. Most importantly, understanding the landscape can help you make more informed decisions and avoid potential legal entanglements.

Be Upfront

Be upfront about your pet situation with potential landlords or property managers. Concealing the fact that you have a pet might lead to complications down the line, including eviction or fines.

Check with the Property Manager

Need some questions answered? Not sure where the landlord stands on pet ownership? Your best bet is to seek out clarification from the property manager. Honesty is always the best policy in these cases, and you may find that landlords and property managers both appreciate your forthrightness.

Follow Due Processes

Following due processes is equally important. Every rental property will have its own set of rules and procedures, particularly when it comes to pets. These might range from restrictions on the type of pet to specific requirements for pet behaviour, noise levels, and cleaning routines. Therefore, we recommend that you develop a clear understanding of these rules before signing any agreement.

Partner with We Do Property Today

Leasing a home, apartment or unit on the Sunshine Coast? We’ve got experienced property managers in Buderim, Caloundra, Palmview, and various other suburbs in the local area. We offer an all-inclusive service that covers all aspects of the property management process.

Want to sell? We also have a team of friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated real estate agents on the Sunshine Coast. Reach out to us today and put your best foot forward! We’re ready to chat about your next property adventure.

FAQs

Q1: What are the current pet rental laws in Australia?

Pet rental laws in Australia vary by state and territory. Victoria and Queensland have introduced binding legislation for pet ownership in rental properties, requiring landlords to provide a good reason to refuse pet requests. In other states and territories, the approval of pets is typically at the discretion of the landlord.

Q2: What is the process for requesting a pet in Victoria?

In Victoria, tenants must complete a ‘pet request form’ for each pet and submit it to the landlord. The landlord then has 14 days to respond and provide a valid reason if they refuse the request.

Q3: Are there specific laws regarding pet ownership in rental properties in New South Wales?

No, there are currently no laws in New South Wales that require tenants to request permission for pets. However, landlords can include a clause in the lease agreement that explicitly bans pets, leaving the decision to the landlord’s discretion.

Q4: What should tenants in Western Australia know about pet bonds?

In Western Australia, landlords can charge a pet bond, capped at $260, to cover potential damage caused by pets. Tenants should be transparent about their pets and seek approval from the landlord during the application process.

Q5: What tips are recommended for pet owners seeking rental properties?

Pet owners should familiarise themselves with local guidelines, be upfront about their pets with landlords or property managers, seek clarification from property managers if needed, and follow due processes and specific requirements for pets in rental properties.