For many pet owners, the biggest headache when renting isn’t the rent—it’s landlords saying no to pets or asking for sky-high deposits. The good news? New rules are coming to New Zealand: a Pet Bond system that makes things fairer for both tenants and landlords.

1. What is a Pet Bond?

A pet bond is an extra deposit that protects the landlord’s property. If your pet causes damage, the landlord can use the bond to cover repairs. If there’s no damage, the bond is fully refunded.

For tenants, this means it’s easier to rent a place with pets and reduces the chance of being turned down. For landlords, it provides extra security, so they can feel more confident allowing pets.

2. Benefits for Tenants

More rental options

  • Many landlords have been hesitant to rent to pet owners. With the Pet Bond system, tenants will have a better chance of finding pet-friendly rentals.

Fair and transparent deposit

  • The pet bond is separate from your regular rental deposit. This makes it clearer and avoids disputes when you move out.

Clear responsibility

  • Tenants are only responsible for actual damage caused by their pets, not normal wear and tear.

Pro tips

  • Take photos of the property when you move in to protect your deposit when you move out.
  • At Uno, we use a 360° camera to capture the property before and after move-in, giving a clear and complete record. This makes deposit returns more transparent and stress-free.

3. Benefits for Landlords

Lower risk

  • With a dedicated pet bond, landlords can cover any pet-related damage, reducing financial risk.

Attract more tenants

  • Pet-owning tenants often stay longer and take good care of the property, helping reduce vacancy.

More transparent system

  • Clear rules around deposits mean fewer disputes and easier property management.

4. Possible Challenges

For tenants

  • The pet bond is an extra cost, which can increase upfront expenses.
  • If your pet causes damage, part of the bond may be withheld.

For landlords

  • Landlords need to set reasonable rules for pets, like size limits or areas pets can access.
  • If damage exceeds the bond, landlords may need to claim the difference.

For pet-loving tenants, this is exciting news—finding a rental no longer means leaving your furry friend behind. For landlords, it’s an opportunity to attract more high-quality tenants while protecting your property.

In short, the Pet Bond makes renting fairer and more transparent for everyone—tenants can feel secure, and landlords can feel confident.