The new pet laws which took effect on 1 December 2025 shifted the balance from the landlord's right to say no pets to the tenant's right to have a pet as part of their quiet enjoyment. Since this idea was mooted we have been factoring it into our tenant placement process, determining the likelihood of the applicant wanting a pet now or in future. Asking is it better to take on a tenant with a mature trained dog at the outset rather than a tenant without a dog who may ask for a new puppy during the tenancy? What is important to realise is that not all pets and their owners are terrible at their job, ie most pets will be fine. Entering into the decision process of whether a tenant can have a pet with an open mind is a great start. Start with the assumption that they will be a good pet owner who will ensure your investment is not toileted on, scratched, chewed etc, then look at the evidence to suggest otherwise. The legislation also provides for setting reasonably conditions on approval of a pet and for remedied any damage caused by the approved pet also.