Landlords in NSW may soon face new rules that prevent them from rejecting pets without a valid reason, thanks to a proposed overhaul of rental laws. This shift, announced by Premier Chris Minns, aims to "modernise" the rental market and make it easier for tenants to own pets.

Currently, landlords can refuse pet requests without providing an explanation. If they live on the property, they retain full veto power over pet ownership. Under the new legislation, which is expected to be introduced next month, landlords will have to provide specific, valid reasons for denying pets. The full list of acceptable reasons has yet to be finalised, but landlords will still be able to apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) if they believe a pet is unsuitable for their property or if there are already too many animals onsite.

Additionally, the new laws will require landlords to offer fee-free rent payment methods, further improving the rental process for tenants. Premier Minns, fulfilling a key pre-election promise, believes these changes strike a balance that benefits renters while respecting landlords' concerns.

Pet Ownership and Its Controversies

The proposal to relax pet ownership rules has sparked debate, particularly among landlords and real estate agents, who warn of potential property damage, like pet urine soaking into carpets. However, tenants' advocates argue that renters are already held responsible for any damage, meaning this reform should not cause additional harm to property owners.

Some submissions during the consultation process pointed to broader social benefits of easing pet restrictions, particularly for victims of domestic violence. A report from the Australian Institute of Family Studies found that concerns over the safety of family pets can delay or prevent people from leaving abusive relationships. Allowing more renters to own pets could, therefore, offer a lifeline to those in difficult situations.

One group of animals will continue to be protected under the new law: assistance animals, which cannot be refused under any circumstances.

A Step Toward Modernisation

Premier Minns highlighted that these reforms are part of a broader strategy to make renting less stressful in NSW. Beyond pet ownership.

While the state government finalises the details, the proposed changes have been widely discussed as a step toward modernising rental laws, making life a little easier for NSW renters while maintaining protections for landlords.