Since 1 October 2022, Queensland's tenancy laws have changed the way landlords and property managers manage pet requests in rental properties. There is now a fair and structured approval process where tenants must seek approval, and lessors can refuse only on prescribed grounds.

Note: The pet approval provisions do not apply to working dogs. The Act defines a working dog as an assistance, guide or hearing dog, a corrective services dog, or a police dog. Tenants are not required to seek approval to keep these animals.

If a tenant wishes to keep a pet:
- They must provide details of the type and number of pets they wish to keep when they complete a Rental Application (Form 22). If the owner approves the application, the type and number of pets allowed must be recorded in the General Tenancy Agreement.
- If they are already living in the property, they must submit a Request for Approval to Keep a Pet (Form 21). The lessor or property manager then has 14 days to respond in writing; otherwise, the pet request is considered approved.

Under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008, a lessor can refuse a tenant’s request only on prescribed reasonable grounds. All grounds are listed in Section 184E of the Act, but some examples include where the property is unsuitable for the type or size of the pet, the number of animals would be excessive, or keeping the pet would breach a law or body corporate by-law. At Coral Sea Property Services, we can discuss this with you if you would like more information.

As a landlord, you can specify reasonable conditions that the tenant must comply with. These are:
- If the pet is allowed inside the premises—a condition requiring carpets in the premises to be professionally cleaned at the end of the tenancy.
- If the pet is capable of carrying parasites that could infest the premises—a condition requiring the premises to be professionally fumigated at the end of the tenancy.
- If the pet is not a type of pet ordinarily kept inside—a condition requiring it to be kept outside at the premises.

Most pet-owning tenants are responsible renters who value a home where their pets are welcome. For many landlords, approving a suitable pet can result in longer tenancies, lower vacancy rates and tenants who are committed to caring for the property. But remember, tenants remain responsible for any nuisance or damage caused by an approved pet, and pet-related damage is not considered fair wear and tear at the end of the tenancy.

At Coral Sea Property Management, we carefully assess every pet application, provide owners with practical advice, and ensure all legislative requirements are met. Our goal is to help landlords make informed, compliant decisions while protecting their investment and fostering successful long-term tenancies.




​