Exciting news for tenants with pets! Later this year, significant changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will improve the rental experience for pet owners. Under the new provisions, landlords will only be able to refuse pets on reasonable grounds, and tenants will have the right to request permission to keep a pet.
Here's what you need to know about the upcoming changes:
Pet Consent
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Tenants can request written consent from their landlord to keep a pet in their rental property.
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Landlords can only refuse a pet request on reasonable grounds.
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Tenants will be responsible for any pet-related damage that exceeds normal wear and tear.
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Disability assist dogs are exempt from these rules, meaning no permission is required and landlords cannot charge a pet bond for these animals.
Pet Bond
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Landlords may require a pet bond, which cannot exceed two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard bond.
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If a landlord agrees to pets, a pet bond may be considered a reasonable condition.
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The tenancy agreement must clearly state the type of bond (general or pet) and the required amounts.
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Pet bonds will be refunded if the pet passes away. If the tenant acquires a new pet, a new pet bond may be charged.
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Rent increases may affect the pet bond. For example, if rent rises by $10 per week, the pet bond may need to be adjusted by $20 (equivalent to the rent increase over two weeks).
Existing Tenancy Agreements
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These changes will apply only to new tenancies once the provisions take effect.
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Pets already in rental properties prior to the changes will not be impacted, as long as the pet was approved by the landlord or not prohibited in the tenancy agreement.
Additional Information
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If pet-related damage exceeds the bond amount, the Tribunal may order that either the general or pet bond be used to cover the costs.
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These changes are expected to take effect in late 2025, though the exact date is yet to be confirmed. Until then, charging a pet bond remains prohibited.
Stay tuned for further updates! More detailed guidance will be provided closer to the implementation date to ensure landlords and tenants understand their rights and responsibilities.
