The gist of the legislation
If a tenant requests a pet, a lessor cannot unreasonably refuse the tenant’s request.
The important parts, at a glance
We’ve picked out the key parts of the legislation and made them as easy as possible to read and understand.
1.
Pets include any type of animal and any size. It's safe to say any domesticated animal would be viewed as acceptable.
2.
Tenants can apply for a pet pre or post signing a tenancy agreement. And at any time during their tenancy.
3.
Landlords can dispute a pet request through ACAT at their cost. The dispute must be lodged with ACAT within 14 days of the pet request.
4.
Tenants must abide to certain rules when they have a pet. The terms of the clause can be negotiated between the tenant and the landlord as long it's consistent with legislation.
5.
Pet clause examples:
- tenants agree not to leave their pet unattended for any unreasonable periods,
- to clean up after their pet and to dispose of their pet's waste,
- to pay for any damage, loss, or expense caused by their pet immediately.
6.
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