Let’s Talk About Pets

With the additional changes to Western Australia’s tenancy laws (March 2026), there is now a clearer process surrounding pets in rental properties. However, there are still important rules, processes and responsibilities that both tenants and landlords need to understand.

Whether you have a dog, cat or rabbit, understanding the process can help make renting with pets far less stressful.

Here’s what WA tenants should know about keeping pets in rental homes in 2026.

You Must Ask Permission First

During a tenancy, tenants must request permission to keep a pet by submitting a Form 25 – Pet Request Form.

Tenants should:

• Complete the tenant section of the form
• Provide the form to their landlord or property manager
• Keep a copy for their records

Landlords Must Respond Within 14 Days

Once a tenant submits a Form 25, the landlord or property manager has 14 days to respond in writing.

If no response is provided within that timeframe, the request is automatically deemed approved under WA tenancy laws.

This has created a much clearer framework for tenants, removing much of the uncertainty that previously existed around pet requests.

Can A Landlord Refuse A Pet Request?

A landlord cannot simply refuse a pet request without legitimate grounds.

Some valid reasons for refusal may include:

• Strata by-laws or local laws prohibit pets
• The property is genuinely unsuitable for the type of pet
• The number or type of pets is unreasonable for the property
• The pet may create an unacceptable health or safety risk
• There is concern significant damage may occur
• The pet is classified as a dangerous dog under WA legislation

In some circumstances, landlords may need approval from the Commissioner for Consumer Protection in order to refuse the request or impose special conditions.

Strata Properties Can Be More Complicated

Pet requests within strata complexes can sometimes involve additional approval processes.

Some strata by-laws prohibit pets entirely, while others require approval from the Council of Owners before a pet can be kept at the property.

Unfortunately, there is currently no legislated timeframe for a Council of Owners to respond to a pet request, which can sometimes delay the process.

For this reason, tenants considering an apartment or strata property should always review the strata by-laws carefully before signing a lease agreement.

Pet Bonds And Conditions

Landlords are allowed to impose certain reasonable conditions when approving pets.

These may include:

• Limiting the number of pets
• Professional carpet cleaning or fumigation requirements
• Maintenance or cleanliness expectations
• Outdoor or fencing requirements

Some additional conditions may require approval from the Commissioner.

Landlords can also request a pet bond. In WA residential tenancies, the maximum pet bond is currently $350 regardless of how many pets are approved.

Pet bonds must be lodged with the Bonds Administrator.

Assistance Animals Are Different

Assistance animals are not treated as ordinary pets under WA tenancy legislation.

People with approved assistance animals cannot be discriminated against and landlords cannot refuse these animals.

Importantly:

• No permission is required for an assistance animal
• No pet bond can be charged
• Assistance animals are protected under anti-discrimination laws

Tenant Responsibilities Still Matter

Even when a pet is approved, tenants remain responsible for ensuring the animal does not create problems during the tenancy.

Tenants are responsible for:

• Cleaning up after the pet
• Preventing nuisance behaviour such as excessive barking
• Repairing damage caused by the pet
• Maintaining the property appropriately

Any damage beyond fair wear and tear may still be claimed against the bond at the end of the tenancy.

Being a proactive and responsible pet owner is one of the best ways to maintain a positive tenancy relationship.

How To Strengthen A Pet Application

A well-prepared pet application can make a big difference when applying for a rental property.

Create A Pet Profile

Include:

• Your pet’s name, age and breed
• A clear photo
• Registration and vaccination details

Include References

References from previous landlords or a veterinarian can help demonstrate responsible pet ownership.

Highlight Training

If your pet is desexed or has completed obedience training, include this in your application.

Offer Reassurance

Offering professional carpet cleaning at vacate or confirming ongoing flea treatment can also help strengthen your request.

Final Thoughts

Renting with pets in Western Australia has become far more transparent under the updated tenancy laws.

While tenants now have stronger rights surrounding pets, there are still important responsibilities that come with keeping animals in rental homes.

Understanding the correct process, communicating openly and presenting a well-prepared pet application can go a long way toward achieving a positive outcome for both tenants and landlords.

At D Residential Group, we believe successful tenancies are built on clear communication, realistic expectations and respectful relationships between all parties — pets included.