Pets in rentals a reality for Tasmanians

Tasmanians no longer have to choose between a home to live in and the pet they love.

The Residential Tenancy Amendment (Pets) Act 2025 officially comes into effect today, delivering a historic change for renters across the State.

Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, said this is an example of our Liberal Government delivering for Tasmania.

“The commencement of these laws marks a significant moment for many Tasmanian households,” Minister Barnett said.

“Pets are an increasingly significant part of people’s lives, and it is fantastic renters will no longer have to choose between a place to live and the pet they love.

“I want to thank all who have worked with us to ensure these laws strike the right balance, providing certainty for renters and property owners.

“We have worked closely with the real estate and community sectors to support a smooth commencement, including targeted training and guidance delivered by industry and Consumer, Building and Occupational Services to help landlords, agents and tenants understand the new process and their rights and responsibilities from day one.”

RSPCA Chief Executive, Andrea Dawkins, said this is a landmark reform that recognises what most Tasmanians already know.

“Pets are family, and people should not have to choose between a safe home and the animals they love,” Ms Dawkins said.

“From an animal welfare perspective, allowing pets in rentals will reduce surrender rates, ease pressure on shelters, and keep more people and their companion animals together where they belong - at home.”

The introduction of the new laws means tenants must lodge a formal pet request with their landlord before bringing a pet into the property, and landlords will no longer be able to apply blanket ‘no pets’ rules in rental agreements.

A landlord may only refuse a pet on reasonable grounds, including genuine concerns about property damage, nuisance, or safety.

More information about the new rules for renting with pets available on the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services website here.