Last Updated: 10/11/2025

Renting with a Pet: A Guide to Asking Your Landlord

Finding a pet-friendly rental can be tricky. Read our guide on how to ask your landlord for a pet in Australia. We cover your legal rights by state, creating a pet resume, and tips for a 'yes'.

Author: Gemma Radcliffe

Reading Time: 7 minutes - short read

Finding a rental property that warmly welcomes your furry friend can often feel like a daunting task. However, as the landscape of property rentals evolves, so does the openness of landlords to the idea of tenants with pets. Many landlords are willing to consider having pets on their premises, provided the right assurances are in place.

In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies and steps on how to approach your landlord and make a compelling case for bringing a pet into your rental home. From crafting a persuasive letter to addressing concerns over property damage, we'll cover all aspects to help you navigate this process with confidence. If the idea of having a pet companion in your rented abode brings you joy, read on to discover how to make a convincing appeal to your landlord for a pet-friendly living arrangement.

Know your rights: Renting with pets by state

shiba inu dog sitting on yellow arm chair

Understanding your specific rights and responsibilities is the first step.

Navigating Australia's rental market with a pet can be complex, as tenancy laws are specific to each state and territory and have seen significant reforms. Here is a breakdown of the rules across the country.

Victoria, Queensland, the ACT, South Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales and Western Australia, blanket "no pets" policies are not allowed.
Tasmania: This state is also in the process of reforming its laws to align with the "reasonable grounds" model used by most of the country.
Tenants must formally request permission to keep a pet.
Landlords must have a prescribed, reasonable ground to refuse (e.g., strata by-laws, property unsuitability, health and safety risks).

Specific state processes:

In Victoria, the ACT, and the Northern Territory, if a landlord wishes to refuse, they must apply to their state's civil tribunal (like VCAT or NTCAT) within a set timeframe to state their case.
In Western Australia, landlords are uniquely permitted to charge a one-off "pet bond" (capped at $260) in addition to the standard bond to cover potential costs like fumigation.

Assistance Animals: It is crucial to note that these rules do not apply to assistance animals. They are protected by national anti-discrimination laws and cannot be refused.

Create a compelling pet resume with references

When asking a landlord for permission to keep a pet, presenting them with a comprehensive "pet application" or "resume" can make a significant difference. This demonstrates responsibility and helps them see your pet as a welcome addition.

If you currently own a pet:

Think of it as introducing a model tenant. Provide clear details about your animal, including:

The basics: Their species, breed, age, and size.
Their personality: Describe their temperament (e.g., "quiet," "calm," "friendly," or "sleeps most of the day").
Their education: List any training they have received, such as puppy school, obedience classes, or simply being fully house-trained.
Supporting documents: Offer to provide vaccination records, desexing and microchip certificates.
Include references: such as a letter from your veterinarian or even past landlord stating that your pet was well-behaved. If you have any of your dog's obedience class certificates, include those as well.

If you are planning to get a pet:

Focus on your own track record as an excellent tenant.

Highlight your strengths: Remind the landlord that you have always paid rent on time and kept the property clean and well-maintained.
Show you are prepared: Reassure them that you are a responsible adult who understands pet ownership. Explain your plans to prevent any issues, such as providing plenty of scratching posts for a cat to protect the carpets, or ensuring a dog will not be left home alone for long hours.

Understand and address your landlord's concerns, and be prepared to negotiate

It is important to proactively address any potential concerns a landlord might have, such as property damage or noise.

Proactive reassurances:

Offer accountability: Formally state that you will take full financial responsibility for rectifying any damage caused by your pet. This can be added as a clause in the rental agreement.
Suggest preventative measures: Offer practical solutions, such as regular nail clipping to protect floorboards or providing scratching posts for cats.
Commit to end-of-lease cleaning: Offer to have the carpets professionally cleaned and arrange for a professional flea or pest treatment when you eventually vacate the property.

Negotiating in an existing tenancy:

If you are already renting and wish to get a new pet, you may need to negotiate specific terms. The key is to find a reasonable, middle-ground solution.

For example, you might offer to have the carpets professionally cleaned at the end of your lease. Your landlord might counter by requesting quarterly or six-monthly cleans. A potential compromise could be an agreement to have the carpets cleaned annually and again upon vacating.

Some renters offer to pay a bond, or extra rent. This one is tricky, as many renters are already strapped for cash come rent due. Legally, a landlord cannot ask for a pet bond (unless in WA), but if you're willing to pay it may be a good option. If your landlord agrees, make sure to get the updated payment written up in a new rental agreement, to avoid any nasty surprises.

What about other pets like birds or rabbits?

When navigating pet rental laws, the legal definition of a "pet" is much broader than just a dog or cat. In most states, almost any animal kept by a tenant requires formal permission from the landlord.

Here is a breakdown of what this means.

Assistance animals are not pets: It is essential to know that assistance animals are not legally considered pets in any state or territory. They are protected by national anti-discrimination law, are not subject to pet clauses or pet bonds (in WA), and do not require a landlord's permission.
The broad legal definition of a 'pet': In most jurisdictions, the legislation defines a 'pet' as essentially any animal kept on the property that is not an assistance animal.

What this means in practice

This broad definition means that, legally, a tenant should seek permission for all animals, including:

Dogs and cats
Mammals in enclosures (e.g., rabbits, guinea pigs, mice)
Birds in an aviary or cage
Reptiles or fish in a secure tank or vivarium

The key difference is not if permission is needed, but the grounds on which a landlord can refuse. A landlord may have "reasonable grounds" to refuse a large dog if the property is unsuitable (e.g., no fence, too small). However, they would have almost no reasonable grounds to refuse an animal that lives in a secure enclosure and poses no risk to the property, such as a goldfish in a tank or a bird in a cage.

More tips for success

Don't hide your pet; be transparent from the beginning

Transparency is key when it comes to introducing a pet into a rental, and it's essential to resist the temptation of sneaking them in without having to undergo a difficult conversation. Honesty is the best policy, and being upfront with your landlord from the get-go fosters trust and open communication.

Emphasise responsible ownership and offer reassurances

When talking with your landlord, it's essential to focus on your commitment to responsible pet ownership. Clearly communicate your understanding of any potential concerns, addressing issues like noise, cleanliness, and potential damages. Assure your landlord that you are well-prepared to mitigate any disruptions, offering to take extra precautions such as additional pet deposits or pet insurance.

Empty the shelters!

At Pet Circle, we advocate adoption of a pet whenever possible (check out PetRescue.com.au) and assist over 50 shelters around the country with donation of food, bedding and more.

See our Give Back page to view rescue organisations that Pet Circle supports.

FAQs

Approaching your landlord for a pet is all about clear communication and preparation. By understanding your legal rights, preparing a thorough pet resume, and openly addressing any concerns, you demonstrate that you are a responsible owner. A positive, prepared, and respectful approach can make all the difference, helping to keep more pets out of shelters and in loving rental homes.