In a recent Tasmanian Government media release, it was confirmed the Residential Tenancy Amendment (Pets) Act 2025 commences Friday, 20 March 2026 across Tasmania. The Government will also release targeted training and guidance so landlords, tenants, and agents understand the new process and rights from day one. Official information is available via Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS): Pets and animals in rental properties.
What landlords should know
- No blanket bans: Lease clauses that prohibit pets outright won’t be enforceable.
- Pet requests are mandatory: Tenants must submit a formal pet request before bringing an animal into the property.
- 14 days to decide: Landlords must approve (with reasonable conditions) or move to refuse within 14 days.
- Refusals must be justified via Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT): Landlords can refuse only on reasonable grounds. To uphold a refusal, the landlord must apply to TASCAT within 14 days of receiving the tenant’s pet request otherwise consent is taken to have been given.
- Damage still recoverable: Tenants remain responsible for pet damage beyond fair wear and tear.
What tenants should know
- Tenant responsibility for damage: Any pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear is the tenant’s cost to repair.
- Ask first: The tenant must lodge a formal pet request before bringing a pet into the rental.
- Timely outcome: The landlord must respond within 14 days. If the landlord seeks to refuse, they’ll need to take the matter to TASCAT and show reasonable grounds.
- Conditions may apply: Approvals can include reasonable conditions (e.g., cleaning or garden care).
- Tenant responsibility for damage: Any pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear is the tenant’s cost to repair.
Government training and step by step guidance will be released ahead of commencement. For rules and FAQs, visit Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS): Pets and animals in rental properties.
