Finding a pet-friendly rental in New Zealand can feel like searching for a unicorn, but it’s far from impossible. The key is preparation, persistence, and presenting yourself as a responsible pet owner. This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the New Zealand rental market with your furry, feathered, or scaled companions.
Understanding the Landscape: Pet Ownership in New Zealand Rentals
Unlike some countries where pet ownership in rentals is more normalised, New Zealand has a history of landlords often preferring pet-free properties. This often boils down to concerns about potential damage, noise complaints, and flea infestations. While data is limited on the exact percentage of rental properties that allow pets, anecdotal evidence suggests it’s a minority. Landlords operating under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 aren’t expressly forbidden from disallowing pets, unless a tenant requires an assistance animal. Recent proposed law changes, such as the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024, if enacted, could positively influence pet ownership, potentially preventing landlords from unreasonably declining tenants with pets, but current legislation still provides landlords with considerable discretion.
Preparing Your Pet “Resume”
Just as you would create a CV to impress a potential employer, assembling a “resume” for your pet can drastically improve your chances. This serves as proof of your commitment to responsible pet ownership and alleviates some of the landlord’s anxieties.
- Pet Profile: Include your pet’s name, breed (or mix), age, weight, and a clear, friendly photo. Highlight any training your pet has received, whether it’s basic obedience or specialised skills.
- Vaccination and Health Records: Providing up-to-date vaccination and health records from your veterinarian demonstrates that you prioritize your pet’s well-being. This can be particularly reassuring for landlords concerned about disease transmission or potential health hazards for other tenants.
- References: Gather references from previous landlords, neighbours, or even dog walkers who can attest to your pet’s well-behaved nature and your responsible ownership. A positive reference can significantly sway a landlord’s decision.
- Pet Insurance Information: Having pet insurance and openly sharing the policy details shows landlords that you are capable of covering potential damages or injuries caused by your pet.
- Responsible Pet Owner Guarantee: Create a written guarantee, signed by you, outlining your commitment to:
- Keeping your pet under control at all times.
- Cleaning up after your pet promptly.
- Preventing your pet from causing excessive noise.
- Addressing any damage caused by your pet immediately.
- Ensuring your pet is treated for fleas and worms regularly.
Searching for Pet-Friendly Properties
The key is to be proactive and target your search efforts effectively. Don’t waste time applying for properties that explicitly state “no pets allowed.”
- Filter Your Online Searches: Use online platforms like Trade Me Property and realestate.co.nz and others, to filter your search results by “pets allowed.” While this is a helpful starting point, be aware that some landlords may not accurately reflect their pet policy, so it’s always best to confirm.
- Directly Contact Property Managers: Don’t rely solely on online advertisements. Reach out to property managers directly, even if a specific listing doesn’t mention pets. Express your interest in their properties and inquire about their pet policy. A personal connection can sometimes make a difference.
- Look for New Listings: New listings often present the best opportunities, as the landlord may not have formed a strong opinion on pet ownership yet. Be among the first to inquire and present your pet resume.
- Network: Let your friends, family, and coworkers know you’re searching for a pet-friendly rental. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool. You might be surprised how many people are aware of pet-friendly options that aren’t publicly advertised.
- Consider Private Landlords: Private landlords, as opposed to large property management companies, may be more flexible and open to negotiating a pet-friendly arrangement. They often have more control over their own properties and may be willing to make exceptions for responsible pet owners.
Crafting a Compelling Application
Your application needs to stand out and address the landlord’s potential concerns head-on. Emphasize your responsibility, your pet’s good behaviour, and your willingness to compromise.
- Write a Personalised Cover Letter: Don’t just submit a generic application form. Write a thoughtful cover letter that introduces yourself, explains why you’re interested in the property, and showcases your pet’s positive qualities. Highlight your commitment to responsible pet ownership and your willingness to abide by any reasonable pet-related rules.
- Offer a Pet Bond: Propose paying an additional bond specifically to cover any potential pet-related damage. This demonstrates your commitment to accountability and provides the landlord with extra financial security. While the Residential Tenancies Act sets limits on the total bond amount, you can negotiate a separate “pet bond” as a form of additional insurance against damage.
- Suggest Regular Property Inspections: Offer to allow the landlord to conduct regular property inspections to ensure your pet isn’t causing any problems. This shows that you’re transparent and proactive about maintaining the property in good condition.
- Provide a Cleaning Schedule: Outline a detailed cleaning schedule that includes regular vacuuming, flea treatments, and other measures to maintain the cleanliness of the property and prevent infestations.
- Address Noise Concerns: If your pet is prone to barking or other noises, explain the steps you’ve taken to manage this behaviour. This could include training, providing stimulating toys, or ensuring your pet gets enough exercise.
Navigating the Interview Process
The interview is your opportunity to make a personal connection with the landlord and further alleviate any concerns they may have.
- Dress Professionally: Even though you’re just meeting with a landlord, dress professionally to make a good impression. This shows that you’re serious about the rental process and respect their time.
- Bring Your Pet (If Possible): With the landlord’s permission, bring your well-behaved pet to the interview. This allows them to see firsthand how your pet interacts with people and their environment. Ensure your pet is clean, groomed, and on a leash.
- Be Prepared to Answer Questions: Be ready to answer questions about your pet’s behaviour, training, and history. Be honest and transparent, and address any potential concerns proactively.
- Ask Questions: Ask the landlord about their specific pet-related policies and concerns. This shows that you’re engaged and willing to work with them to create a positive living arrangement.
- Follow Up: After the interview, send a thank-you note to the landlord, reiterating your interest in the property and your commitment to responsible pet ownership.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities
It’s crucial to understand both your rights as a tenant and your responsibilities as a pet owner under New Zealand law. The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 governs the relationship between landlords and tenants, but it doesn’t explicitly address pet ownership in detail (unless it pertains to assistance animals). However, standard tenancy agreements often include clauses related to pet ownership, and it’s essential to carefully review these clauses before signing anything.
- Fair Wear and Tear: You’re not responsible for fair wear and tear, which is the natural deterioration of the property over time. However, you are responsible for any damage caused by your pet beyond normal wear and tear.
- Quiet Enjoyment: You have the right to quiet enjoyment of your property, meaning you shouldn’t be subjected to unreasonable noise or disturbances from other tenants or the landlord. However, this also means you’re responsible for ensuring your pet doesn’t disrupt other tenants.
- Responsibilities: Ensure your pet doesn’t cause any damage to the property, behaves in a way that doesn’t violate the peace and quiet of other tenants, and is always under your control. Failing to meet these responsibilities could lead to breaches of your tenancy agreement.
Case Study: Sarah and Max Find Their Dream Home
Sarah, a young professional with a well-behaved Golden Retriever named Max, struggled to find a rental property in Auckland that would accept pets. After numerous rejections, she decided to take a more proactive approach. She created a detailed “resume” for Max, including photos, vaccination records, and references from previous neighbours who praised Max’s gentle nature. She also offered to pay an additional “pet bond” to cover any potential damage. When she found a property she loved, she wrote a personalised cover letter explaining why she was an ideal tenant and highlighting Max’s positive qualities. During the interview, she brought Max along (with the landlord’s permission), and Max charmed the landlord with his calm demeanour. Sarah also offered to allow regular property inspections to ensure Max wasn’t causing any problems. Impressed by Sarah’s preparation and Max’s good behaviour, the landlord approved her application. Sarah and Max are now happily settled in their new home.
Financial Considerations: Budgeting for Pet-Related Costs
Owning a pet involves various costs, and it’s essential to factor these into your budget when renting. Landlords will appreciate that you already understand costs and responsibilities with pet ownership.
- Food: Budget for high-quality pet food that meets your pet’s nutritional needs. The cost will vary depending on the size and breed of your pet.
- Veterinary Care: Include regular check-ups, vaccinations, and potential unexpected vet bills in your budget. Pet insurance can help cover unexpected medical expenses.
- Pet Insurance: Provides covers for unexpected illnesses, injuries, or accidents that may require expensive treatment. Compare different pet insurance policies to find one that suits your needs and budget.
- Grooming: Some pets require regular grooming, either at home or by a professional groomer.
- Pet Supplies: Budget for essential pet supplies such as toys, bedding, leashes, collars, and cleaning supplies.
- Additional Bond Contribution: As mentioned before, consider offering to pay a pet-related bond, which provides landlords extra security against potential pet-related damages.
- Potential Extra Cleaning: In some situations, you may need to pay for specialized cleaning services if your pet has caused significant issues within the property.
Building a Positive Relationship with Your Landlord
Maintaining a positive relationship with your landlord is crucial for a smooth renting experience, especially when you have pets.
- Communicate openly: Keep your landlord informed about any issues related to your pet, such as health problems or behavioural changes. Promptly address any concerns they raise.
- Be respectful: Treat your landlord with respect and be mindful of their time and property. Follow the terms of your tenancy agreement and any pet-related rules they’ve established.
- Be proactive: Take the initiative to address potential problems before they escalate. This could involve fixing minor damage caused by your pet or preventing your pet from disturbing other tenants.
- Show appreciation: Express your gratitude to your landlord for allowing you to have a pet on their property. A small gesture of appreciation can go a long way.
Long-Term Planning: Finding a Permanent Pet-Friendly Home
While renting with pets can be challenging, it can also be a stepping stone towards finding a permanent pet-friendly home. Consider your long-term goals and explore options such as purchasing a property or building your own home.
- Save for a Deposit: Start saving early for a deposit to purchase your own property. This gives you the freedom to choose a home that is perfectly suited to your pet’s needs.
- Research Pet-Friendly Neighbourhoods: Look for neighbourhoods that have plenty of parks, green spaces, and pet-friendly amenities.
- Consider a Lifestyle Block: If you’re looking for more space for your pet, consider purchasing a lifestyle block or rural property.
FAQ: Common Questions About Renting with Pets in New Zealand
Can a landlord legally refuse to rent to me solely because I have a pet?
Generally, yes, unless the pet is a certified assistance animal. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords have broad discretion in choosing tenants. However, proposed law changes may limit a landlord’s ability to ‘unreasonably’ decline a prospective tenant based on pet ownership. This is dependent on the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024 being enacted.
What is an assistance animal, and am I required to disclose this?
An assistance animal is one that has been trained to assist a person with a disability. Landlords are legally obligated to accommodate assistance animals, and denying tenancy based on the presence of an assistance animal could be discriminatory under the Human Rights Act 1993. Disclosure may be required to verify it is a legitimate assistance animal given the support of official documentation.
Can a landlord increase the rent or bond because I have a pet?
Landlords may not increase the bond beyond the legally permitted amount, which is generally capped at the equivalent of up to four weeks’ rent. It is also not expected to raise the rent considerably relative to the market rate unless there is a good reason. A slightly raised rent may exist. However, you can negotiate a separate ‘pet bond’ as an extra measure of covering the issues.
What happens if my pet causes damage to the rental property?
You are responsible for any damage caused by your pet beyond normal wear and tear. The landlord can deduct the cost of repairs from your bond or pursue you for additional compensation. This is where the additional “pet bond” can come in handy.
What if my pet becomes a nuisance to neighbours?
If your pet is causing excessive noise or otherwise disturbing your neighbours, the landlord may receive complaints and could take action against you. This could include issuing a notice to remedy or even terminating your tenancy agreement.
Can a landlord change the rules about pets after I’ve already moved in?
The landlord can only change the rules about pets if you both agree to the changes in writing. If you don’t agree, the original terms of your tenancy agreement will remain in effect.
References:
Residential Tenancies Act 1986
Human Rights Act 1993
Trade Me Property
realestate.co.nz
Ready to start your pet-friendly rental journey? Don’t let the challenges discourage you. With preparation, persistence, and a positive attitude, you can find a landlord who welcomes you and your furry companion with open arms. Start building your pet resume today, refine your search strategies, and craft a compelling application that showcases your responsibility and your pet’s good qualities. Your dream pet-friendly home in beautiful New Zealand awaits! Now, go out there and find it!
