Pets in Queensland Rentals – What Landlords Need to Know

4 MIN READ | By Danielle Clark | Updated on February 13, 2025

Changes to Queensland tenancy laws mean that landlords cannot simply say “no pets” without valid, prescribed reasons. Managing pet requests correctly is now an essential compliance responsibility for property managers and landlords.

Handled well, pets can support longer tenancies and better tenant retention. Handled poorly, they can lead to disputes, delays, or breaches of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (RTRA Act).

Here’s what Queensland landlords need to know about pets in rental properties and how to manage them properly.

Can Tenants Have Pets in Queensland Rentals?

Yes, but approval is required under section 41A of the RTRA Act. Tenants must submit a Request to Keep a Pet to the landlord or agent.

Once a valid request is received:

• Landlord approves: The pet may live on the property under any agreed conditions.

• Landlord refuses: The refusal must be based on prescribed reasonable grounds (see below).

• No response within 14 days: Under section 41A(6), the request is automatically approved.

When Can a Pet Request Be Refused?

Queensland law limits refusals to specific, prescribed reasons. Landlords cannot refuse a pet request simply because they prefer not to allow pets.

Examples of reasonable grounds under the RTRA Act include:

• The property is unsuitable for the type, size, or number of pets (e.g., a large dog in a small apartment)

• The pet would pose an unacceptable health or safety risk

• Keeping the pet would breach body corporate by-laws

• The property is not fully fenced, and fencing cannot be reasonably installed

• The pet is a restricted or regulated animal

Any refusal should be clearly documented in writing and, where appropriate, supported by evidence. See section 41B of the RTRA Act for guidance.

What Conditions Can Be Set for Pets?

Landlords can approve pets with reasonable, lawful conditions. Permitted conditions may include:

• Tenant must repair any damage caused by the pet

• Professional cleaning or pest treatment at the end of the tenancy if the pet lived inside

• Compliance with local council or body corporate rules 

Landlords cannot:

• Charge an additional pet bond
• Increase rent solely because of a pet
• Require unreasonable conditions unrelated to the pet

All conditions should be clearly documented in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

Pets, Damage, and Wear and Tear

Tenants are responsible for any damage caused by their pets beyond fair wear and tear (section 185 of the RTRA Act).

Examples include:

• Scratched doors or flooring

• Damaged carpets or fittings

• Chewed fixtures

• Garden or yard damage 

To minimise disputes, landlords should ensure:

• Detailed entry condition reports

• Routine inspections

• Clear documentation of pet approvals and conditions