Extended rules on pet application commenced on 2nd October 2026.
When a tenant is moving into a rental property with a pet, they can request the landlord’s consent before signing the tenancy agreement or after the agreement has been entered into.
If the tenant submits their application within 7 days of entering into the agreement, they can keep their pet at the property while awaiting the landlord’s written response.
Landlords have 21 days to respond and can only refuse consent on grounds permitted under the legislation.
Importantly, if the landlord fails to respond within 21 days, the pet is automatically approved WITHOUT conditions. This means conditions cannot be imposed as part of that approval.
If consent is refused, the tenant has 21 days to remove the pet or challenge the decision through NCAT. If an application is lodged with NCAT within that period, the pet can remain at the property until the matter is determined. If the application is dismissed or withdrawn, the tenant has a further 21 days to remove the pet.
If the tenant applies more than 7 days after entering into the tenancy agreement, they must obtain the landlord’s consent before keeping the pet at the property.
For agents, the key takeaway is to act promptly. Ensure applications are referred to landlords, response deadlines are monitored and any permitted conditions are communicated in writing within the 21-day period. Missing the deadline means losing the opportunity to impose conditions on the pet approval.