Under new proposed pet laws renters may soon be allowed to own pets without needing approval from landlords.

The current laws state that:

• In NSW it is up to the discretion of the landlord whether they wish to accept a potential tenant with a pet
• The only exception for landlords in NSW is that they cannot refuse assistance animals
• In other states and territories across Australia, such as the ACT, landlords are required to go to the tribunal to obtain approval for any pet refusals

These potential changes will bring NSW laws in line with other laws across Australia and provide potential tenants with pets a greater choice, restricting landlords to deny pet owners.

With these impending changes it is important to ensure your pets by-laws are up to date and take into account the recent changes to both strata and residential tenancy laws regarding pets.