Understanding the New Pet Application Process
From 20 March 2026, new pet provisions under the Residential Tenancy Amendment (Pets) Act 2025 will come into effect across Tasmania. These changes introduce a formal process for tenants who wish to keep a pet at a rental property. The new legislation provides tenants with the ability to request approval for a pet, while also outlining clear steps and timeframes for landlords and property managers to follow. Below is a simple overview of how the new pet application process works.
Requesting approval for a pet
If you are renting a property and would like to keep a pet, you must submit a formal pet application before the animal moves into the property.
The application must include details about the pet, such as:
• Type of animal
• Breed and size (if applicable)
• Number of pets
• Any relevant registration or identification information
Your property manager will provide the appropriate Pet Request Form to complete.
What happens after a request is submitted
Once a completed pet request is received, the property owner has 14 days to provide a written response.
They may:
• Approve the pet request
• Approve the request with reasonable conditions relating to the pet
• Decline the request, with reasons provided
If no written response is given within the 14 day timeframe, the request is considered approved under the legislation.
When a request may be declined
A request may be declined if there are reasonable concerns relating to the property or the pet. This may include factors such as:
• The suitability of the property for the animal
• Potential risk of damage to the property
• Safety concerns for neighbours or other animals
• Restrictions under strata or local council regulations
Where a request is declined, the legislation provides a process for the matter to be reviewed through the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT).
Ongoing responsibilities
Tenants remain responsible for ensuring their pets are properly cared for and do not cause damage or nuisance.
Any damage caused by a pet beyond fair wear and tear may still be claimed against the bond or through the appropriate tenancy processes.
Submitting a pet request
If you would like to apply for a pet at your rental property, please fill out the official pet application form and return to your Roberts Real Estate Property Manager .
Our team will guide you through the process and ensure your request is submitted correctly.
*Roberts Real Estate has made all reasonable endeavours to obtain information for this article from sources considered to be reliable; however, we cannot guarantee its complete accuracy in every instance and are not liable for any potential inaccuracies that may arise or details that may subsequently change. This is not financial or legal advice and individuals are advised to carry out their own thorough investigations to ensure that any decisions, options, opinions, or products indicated in this article suit their individual circumstances.
