Pets in QLD Rental Properties: What Brisbane Bayside Investors Need to Know

There is a clear shift happening across the Brisbane Bayside. More tenants are looking for homes where their pets are welcome, and this is especially true across Redlands, Wynnum, Manly and the surrounding pockets. For investors, this growing demand opens the door to stronger enquiry, longer tenancies and a stable rental income. It also raises important questions about how to stay compliant while still protecting your property.

If you are weighing up how to handle pets in rental properties QLD, the good news is that you can remain pet friendly without feeling like you are giving up control. With the right approach, pets can sit comfortably within a well managed tenancy.

The Current Pet Laws in Queensland: What Has Changed

The RTRA Act sets a clear process for pet requests. Tenants must seek written approval before bringing a pet into the home. Failing to do so is considered a significant breach of the tenancy agreement. Once a tenant submits their Form 21 request, you have 14 days to respond. If you do not, the request is automatically approved.

The grounds for refusing a pet are much narrower than they once were and must align with legislation. For Bayside landlords, this means decisions need to be thoughtful, documented and compliant. You can still maintain clear expectations. The key is understanding which levers you can legally use.

What You Still Control as the Property Owner

Approval does not mean you have to accept every arrangement. You can apply reasonable conditions based on the type of pet, the nature of the home and any practical considerations such as fencing, flooring or body corporate rules. Common conditions may specify approved areas for the animal within the property and require professional carpet cleaning and flea treatment upon vacating.

If a tenant keeps a pet without approval or breaches agreed conditions, this falls under the significant breach provisions. In these situations, you may issue a Notice to Remedy Breach and resolve the matter early.

The Risk of Undisclosed Pets and How to Minimise It

Undisclosed pets still occur, even with tighter legislation. Sometimes tenants assume a small animal is harmless. Other times they worry about being declined. The best protection is a clear process. Ask specific questions during the application stage. Cross check rental history. Stay alert during inspections and at lease sign up. Most importantly, educate tenants on their legal requirements. People are far more likely to comply when they understand the rules.

Setting the Right Pet Clauses in the Lease

The Act allows owners to set reasonable approval conditions that relate directly to the pet. You can outline expectations around behaviour, supervision, cleaning and end of lease treatments. These clauses work best when they are practical and clearly written. When tenants know exactly what is expected, disputes become far less common.

Why Routine Inspections Matter Even More With Pets

Pets can be wonderful companions but they can add wear and tear. Routine inspections help you pick up issues early and support your tenant in caring for the home. Used well, inspections become a calm check in rather than a confrontation.

The RTA reinforces that pet responsibility always sits with the tenant, stating that “any nuisance and damages caused by an approved pet are the responsibility of the tenant and pet damages are not considered fair wear and tear at the end of the tenancy.”

How Bayside Elite Supports You as a Property Investor

At Bayside Elite, we take the time to assess pet requests properly. You receive clear communication, thoughtful recommendations and a steady hand managing the process from start to finish. Throughout the tenancy, we monitor compliance, support your tenant and stay proactive so your investment remains protected. This is where careful management makes all the difference.

A Smarter Path Forward for Pet Friendly Investing

Pet ownership is only increasing across the Brisbane Bayside and thoughtful pet management is now part of running a successful investment property. When approvals are handled with clarity, conditions are fair and inspections are consistent, you can welcome pets without taking on unnecessary risk. 

Many owners find the experience far more positive than expected, especially when supported by careful, proactive management.

If you would like guidance on pet approvals or want to review your current policies, feel free to contact me so I can help you.