Further changes to NSW rental laws concerning pets commenced on 2 October 2026.
The changes affect tenants who enter into a new residential tenancy agreement and move into the property with a pet. They introduce new time frames governing when an application must be submitted, how long the landlord has to respond and how long the pet may remain at the property if consent is refused.
What has changed?
A tenant moving into a new rental property with a pet may apply for the landlord’s consent within seven days after entering into the tenancy agreement.
If the application is submitted within this seven-day period, the tenant may keep the pet at the property while waiting for the landlord’s written response.
This means an eligible tenant does not need to wait for the landlord’s consent before moving into the property with their pet, provided the application is made within the required time frame.
If the tenant applies more than seven days after entering into the tenancy agreement, the landlord’s consent must be obtained before the pet is kept at the property.
How long does the landlord have to respond?
The landlord has 21 days after receiving the application to provide the tenant with a written response.
The response should confirm whether consent is:
- Granted without conditions
- Granted subject to reasonable conditions
- Refused on one or more of the grounds permitted under NSW rental laws
If the landlord does not respond within 21 days, consent is automatically granted without conditions.
What happens if the application is refused?
If the landlord refuses the application, the tenant does not need to remove the pet immediately.
The pet may remain at the property for 21 days after the tenant receives the refusal.
If the tenant applies to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) within that period to challenge the refusal, the pet may remain at the property while the application is being considered.
If NCAT upholds the landlord’s refusal, the pet may remain at the property for a further 21 days after the Tribunal’s decision. The same time frame applies if the tenant withdraws the application.
Can a landlord refuse a pet?
A landlord cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet. Consent may only be refused on grounds permitted under NSW rental laws.
If consent is refused, the landlord or agent must provide the tenant with a written response explaining the applicable ground and why it applies.
Each application should be assessed individually, taking into consideration the property, the proposed pet and the relevant legal requirements.
What about strata properties?
Approval from a landlord is separate from any approval required under a strata scheme’s by-laws.
Tenants moving into a strata property should:
- Check the scheme’s by-laws to determine whether approval is required.
- Submit any required application to the owners corporation.
- Complete the separate pet application process with the landlord or managing agent.
Landlord approval does not automatically provide strata approval, and vice versa.
Updated NSW tenancy forms
NSW Fair Trading has updated the following documents to reflect the new requirements:
Landlords and property managers should replace older versions of these documents and ensure the updated forms are used for new tenancies and pet applications.
The latest forms and further guidance are available through the NSW Fair Trading website.
What should tenants do?
Tenants moving into a new rental property with a pet should complete the approved Pet Application and Response Form and submit it promptly.
All tenants named on the tenancy agreement must sign the application. Tenants should also retain a copy and evidence of when it was provided to the landlord or agent.
What should landlords and managing agents do?
Landlords and agents should carefully record the date each pet application is received, assess it promptly and issue a completed written response within 21 days.
Failing to respond within the required period will result in the application being automatically approved without conditions.
Need assistance with a pet application?
The rules governing pets in NSW rental properties involve strict forms and time frames for tenants, landlords and property managers.
If you require assistance with a tenancy or pet application, contact our team on 02 9188 5000 or visit moshav.com.au.
Need help managing your rental property?
Moshav Realty provides boutique residential and commercial property management services across Sydney, with a strong presence throughout the Eastern Suburbs.
We manage every stage of the tenancy process, including leasing, inspections, rent collection, maintenance coordination and end of tenancy bond matters.
To discuss how we can assist with your investment property, contact Moshav Realty on 02 9188 5000 or visit moshav.com.au.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Visit the NSW Government website for the latest information.
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