Update on New Pet Law Legislation for Rental Properties
An update on the upcoming changes to the pet legislation for tenanted properties.
From 20 March 2026, changes to Tasmania’s residential tenancy laws will give tenants greater ability to keep pets in rental properties. These reforms aim to improve housing stability, support pet welfare, and modernise rental laws—while still protecting landlords and their investments.
Understanding these changes early will help property owners and tenants work together and minimise potential disputes.
Key Changes
• Tenants can request to keep a pet, and blanket “no pets” clauses will no longer apply.
• Landlords have 14 days to respond to a pet request. No response is seen as ‘Approved’
• Pets can still be refused on reasonable grounds, such as safety concerns, potential damage, nuisance issues, or strata restrictions. This must be applied and approved via TASCAT.
• Assistance animals are always permitted and are not considered pets.
• Body corporate and strata by-laws will continue to apply.
Tenant Responsibilities
Tenants remain responsible for ensuring pets do not cause damage or nuisance and for covering any pet-related cleaning or repairs.
Things to consider as a Landlord
Review Your Insurance With more pets in rental homes, landlords should review their landlord insurance policies to confirm what is covered. Some policies may exclude pet-related damage such as scratches, stains, or odours, so it’s important to check your cover and update it if needed.
Pet-Friendly Property Improvements
When planning future upgrades, landlords may wish to consider pet-friendly features that help reduce wear and tear, such as:
• Durable flooring like vinyl, hybrid, laminate, or tiles instead of carpet
• Washable wall finishes and robust skirting boards
• Secure fencing and gates
• Blinds instead of curtains
• Outdoor taps or easy-clean laundry areas
These updates can help protect your property and make it more attractive to a wider range of quality tenants.
The updated pet legislation commencing on 20 March 2026 marks a positive step toward more flexible and pet-friendly rental housing in Tasmania. With clear communication, appropriate insurance cover, and thoughtful property features, pets can be a welcome addition to rental homes.
Contact the team at MIX Property Group with any questions you have regarding these upcoming changes.