Keeping pets in rental properties is often a point of contention between landlords and tenants. Landlords often worry about potential property damage. Understanding the latest Queensland rental property legislation in relation to pets is crucial for both landlords and tenants.
Pets and Queensland rental property law
Queensland’s rental property legislation was amended on 1 October 2022 to protect the rights of both landlords and tenants when it comes to keeping pets. Both landlords and tenants have new pet rights and responsibilities under the updated laws:
1. Pet requests: All Queensland tenants must submit a written request to their landlord if they wish to keep a pet.
2. Response timeline: Landlords have 14 days to respond to the request. If they fail to respond within this timeframe, the request is considered to be approved by default.
3. Reasonable grounds for refusal: Landlords can still refuse a pet request, but only on reasonable grounds, such as:
- The property is unsuitable for the pet (for example, there is no fencing for a dog).
- Keeping a pet would breach body corporate bylaws.
- The pet poses a safety risk (for example, certain restricted breeds).
Previously, landlords could refuse a tenant pet request without providing a reason.
4. Reasonable conditions for approval are allowed: Landlords can approve pet requests with reasonable conditions, such as requiring professional carpet cleaning at the end of the tenancy.
Tenant perspectives on pets
For tenants, having a pet can significantly enhance their quality of life. Pets offer emotional support, companionship and even potential health benefits. However, navigating the rental market with a pet can be challenging.
1. Submitting a pet request: When requesting approval for a pet to a landlord or property manager, tenants should provide as much information as possible. This might include:
- The type, breed and size of the pet.
- Evidence of training or vaccination records.
- A pet resume, which can showcase good behaviour and positive references from previous landlords.
2. Understanding responsibilities: Tenants should be aware of their obligations to ensure their pet does not cause damage or disrupt the property. Common responsibilities include:
- Preventing excessive noise, such as barking.
- Cleaning up after the pet to maintain hygiene.
- Repairing any pet-related damage, such as scratched floors or chewed fixtures.
3. Challenging unreasonable refusals: If a landlord refuses a pet request without valid grounds in Queensland, tenants can seek dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).
Landlord perspectives on pets
From a landlord’s point of view, allowing pets can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it opens the property to a broader pool of tenants and can increase tenant satisfaction. On the other hand, concerns about potential damage or complaints from neighbours often make landlords hesitant.
1. Evaluating pet requests: Landlords should assess each request individually rather than applying a blanket “no-pets” policy. Factors to consider include:
- The type and number of pets.
- The property’s suitability for the specific pet.
- Suitable approval conditions to mitigate risks.
2. Setting clear conditions: To protect their property, landlords can attach reasonable conditions to pet approvals. For instance:
- Requiring professional pest control upon lease termination.
- Specifying areas of the property where the pet is not allowed.
3. Insurance Considerations: Landlords should review their insurance policies to ensure they cover potential pet-related damages. Some policies may exclude coverage for damage caused by tenants’ pets.
How our Purple Cow property management team can help you
If you have an investment property in the Greater Springfield area (or you are thinking of buying one), we would love to manage it for you. Or if you are keen to buy one, our investment team can help you to find the right property and tenants to maximise your return.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you.
