Examples of reasonable grounds

Reasonable grounds could be that:

• the property is not suitable for the pet
• there are legal restrictions
• the tenant has not met the animal bylaws
• the pet is not suitable for the property
• the tenant does not meet pet consent conditions.

The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 does not explain what is meant by a reasonable ground. This means the landlord needs to apply logic and fairness when declining a pet consent request. The landlord could have 1 or more reasonable grounds.

The property is not suitable for the pet

In some cases, the nature of the property will not be suitable for the type of pet, for example, if:

• the property is too small
• there is little to no fencing
• the property has unique features that would be difficult to repair if damaged by a pet
• the property has unique features that make keeping a pet risky or impractical.

Legal restrictions

Sometimes pets are not legally allowed at the property. This could be due to:

• local authority rules, bylaws or regulations, for example, local or regional council
• body corporate rules
• cross-lease agreements.

The tenant has not met the animal bylaws

The tenant must meet the relevant animal bylaws for their pet. Bylaws could include:

• pet registration
• microchipping
• desexing
• containment requirements.

Each local council can have different rules. Tenants should check their local bylaws and make sure they meet them.

Pet is not suitable for the property

It can be that the pet is not suitable for the property due to:

• too many pets for the property
• the size, type or breed of the pet
• the pet’s potential to cause damage or disrupt neighbours
• the pet is classified as dangerous or menacing under the Dog Control Act 1996.

Tenant does not meet pet consent conditions

The landlord can decline a pet consent application if:

• the tenant has not met a reasonable pet consent condition in the past
• the tenant does not agree to meet reasonable pet consent conditions set by the landlord.

Pet consent conditions

Dog Control Act 1996 — NZ Legislation(external link)

If a tenant thinks a reason is not valid

We recommend the tenant talks to the landlord to try and reach an agreement.

If you cannot reach an agreement, the tenant can apply for mediation or to the Tenancy Tribunal. Before applying, we suggest you gather evidence to prove your case. For example, council records or references from previous landlords.

Disputes process

If the landlord declines without reasonable grounds

If a landlord does not have reasonable grounds, they could receive a penalty of up to $1,500.