Power to the pets: New rental laws for pet ownership

Relaxed rules for pets in rental homes and ending ‘no-grounds’ evictions are among new laws set to take effect in NSW later this year.

The reforms will come into effect on May 19 following consultation with renters, investors, animal welfare groups and industry representatives.

Under the changes, property owners will be required to provide a valid reason to end all lease types. Longer notice periods will apply for some leases, giving renters greater certainty and time to find a new home.

Tenants will also be able to apply to keep a pet in their rental home, with owners only able to refuse for specific reasons, such as the owner living at the property or failure to comply with local council laws.

A standard application form and process has been developed to make the system clearer and more efficient for both renters and owners.

Approval will be automatic if owners do not respond to pet applications within 21 days.

NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said ending no-grounds evictions is a massive win for renters.

“It gives people the stability they need to build a life and plan for the future,” she said.

“We’ve inherited a rental system that was never designed for long-term tenants — this reform starts to lay new foundations for a fairer system.

“Housing security shouldn’t be a privilege, it should be the baseline. These changes finally begin to reflect that in law.”