One Year On: WA’s Pet Reform Promised Change - Did It Deliver?
It’s been a year since Western Australia’s rental laws took a historic turn, giving tenants the right to request pets in their homes. The reform, which came into effect on 29 July 2024, was part of a broader overhaul of the Residential Tenancies Act, aimed at modernising a system that hadn’t seen major updates in over a decade
At the time, the pet provision was celebrated as a win for renters and animal welfare advocates alike. But now, 12 months later, the question remains: has the reform truly reshaped the rental landscape, or has it simply added another layer of bureaucracy?
The Promise: Pets Without Prejudice
Before the reform, landlords in WA could reject pet requests outright, often without explanation. The new law flipped that power dynamic. Tenants now have the right to request a pet, and landlords must provide a reasonable justification if they wish to refuse. If a dispute arises, it goes to the Commissioner for Consumer Protection, who has the final say.
The intent was clear: make pet ownership more accessible for renters, many of whom were forced to choose between housing and their furry companions.
The Reality: A System Still Finding Its Feet
In the first year, 16 appeals were lodged by tenants whose pet requests were denied. Of those, 15 were overturned, with the Commissioner siding with tenants. That’s a strong signal that the system is working - at least on paper.
But behind the numbers lies a more nuanced story. Landlords continue to cite concerns about:
- Property damage
- Allergies
- Strata by-laws
- Lack of outdoor space
While some of these reasons are valid, others seem rooted in outdated perceptions of pet ownership. The law allows landlords to impose reasonable conditions - such as requiring professional carpet cleaning or limiting pets to certain areas - but many remain reluctant.
Tenants Speak: Relief, But Not Revolution
For tenants, the reform has brought relief - but not necessarily revolution. Pet owners report feeling more confident when applying for rentals, and some say they’ve finally been able to reunite with pets they had to give up.
Yet others say the process is still intimidating. “I had to write a formal letter, provide vet records, and wait weeks for a response,” said one Perth renter. “It felt like applying for a mortgage just to keep my cat.”
Landlords Adapt - Slowly
Some landlords have embraced the change, updating lease agreements to include pet clauses and even marketing properties as “pet friendly.” Others remain cautious, fearing increased wear and tear or tenant turnover.
Real estate agents are caught in the middle, trying to balance legal obligations with client preferences. “We’re seeing more landlords open to pets,” said one agent. “But it’s still not the norm.”
A Cultural Shift in Progress
WA’s reform reflects a broader cultural shift: pets are no longer seen as optional extras- they’re family. With nearly half of WA households owning a pet, the law is finally catching up to reality.
But cultural change takes time. The reform may have opened the door, but it hasn’t yet changed the hearts and minds of every landlord.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
As WA prepares for Phase 3 of its tenancy reforms- focused on bond disposal and dispute resolution- the pet provision serves as a litmus test. It shows that legal change is possible, but meaningful impact requires education, enforcement, and empathy.
One year on, the pet reform has made a difference. But whether it’s a transformative shift or just a symbolic gesture depends on how the next few years unfold.
Lastly, Where Do We Sit?
As property managers, we sit at the intersection of legislation and lived experience. Our role is not just to enforce the rules, but to guide landlords through change - with clarity, empathy, and professionalism.
That means:
- Educating landlords on what constitutes a reasonable refusal
- Helping draft pet agreements that protect the property while respecting tenant rights
- Mediating early, before issues escalate to formal disputes
- Encouraging proactive property improvements that make homes more pet-friendly and marketable
If you're a landlord, now is the time to lean in, not pull back. The pet reform is here and navigating it well can mean the difference between a smooth tenancy and unnecessary conflict. As property managers, we’re here to help you make informed decisions, protect your investment, and build lasting relationships with responsible tenants.
Need guidance on pet agreements, property suitability, or how to set fair conditions? Let’s talk.