What to Do When a Neighbour’s Pet Is Causing Problems
We all love a furry (or feathered) friend but in strata or community title living, your neighbour’s pet can sometimes be more howl than wow. Maybe it’s a dog who thinks it’s auditioning for “The Voice,” a cat who treats every balcony as its personal runway, or a cockatoo with a vocabulary that would make your grandma blush.
In close quarters, even the most adorable pet can cause headaches. So, what do you do when someone else’s four-legged (or two-winged) companion starts causing problems?
Common pet dramas in strata life
Some issues crop up more often than others:
Noise barking, howling, squawking, or midnight zoomies across tiled floors.
Mess pet waste left in gardens or common areas, fur build-up in hallways, or the dreaded “litter tray smell” drifting into communal spaces.
Damage scratching doors, chewing balcony rails, or digging up shared gardens.
Roaming cats or dogs wandering into other lots, balconies, or shared spaces without permission.
Aggressive behaviour; pets lunging, chasing, or intimidating residents.
What the rules say (Australia-wide snapshot)
In most states, strata and community schemes have by-laws (or “rules” in VIC/ACT) covering pets. These usually require:
Written approval before keeping an animal (especially for new owners).
Keeping pets under control in common areas.
Cleaning up after your pet immediately.
Preventing the pet from causing nuisance, hazard, or damage.
Recent legal trends, particularly in NSW and VIC, have leaned towards more pet-friendly living, but “pet-friendly” doesn’t mean “free-for-all.” Even approved pets can lose their welcome if they cause ongoing issues.
Step-by-step: Dealing with a problem pet
1. Start friendly
Most people genuinely don’t know their pet is causing a problem. Your neighbour might not hear the barking when they’re at work or realise Fluffy has been sneaking onto your balcony for sunbathing sessions. A friendly chat is often all it takes.
“Hey, just a heads-up your dog’s been a bit vocal when you’re out. Maybe a toy or treat puzzle could keep them busy?”
2. Keep notes (just in case)
If the problem continues, jot down details:
Dates and times the issue occurs.
Photos or short videos (if appropriate).
Any damage caused.
This isn’t about building a legal case straight away it’s about having a clear record if you need to escalate.
3. Check the by-laws/rules
Look at your scheme’s pet by-law or rules, plus relevant state legislation:
NSW Strata Schemes Management Act 2015; pets allowed unless there’s a good reason to refuse.
VIC Owners Corporations Act 2006; rules must be reasonable.
QLD Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997; schemes can require approval and set conditions.
WA Strata Titles Act 1985; by-laws govern approvals and conduct.
SA, TAS, ACT, NT Similar: approval needed, must prevent nuisance/damage.
4. Get the strata/community manager involved
If your polite approach didn’t work, send your notes and diary to the strata or community manager. They can:
Remind the owner of the by-law.
Issue a written notice to comply.
Arrange mediation if needed.
5. Escalate if necessary
If things still don’t improve, each state has a tribunal or commission to resolve disputes this is the last resort and should be best avoided. They can order an owner to control their pet, fix damage, or in extreme cases, remove the animal from the property.
6. Tips for keeping the peace
Always try talking first it’s cheaper and friendlier than going straight to formal action.
Avoid personal attacks; keep it about the behaviour, not the owner.
Suggest solutions (dog walkers, pet sitters, balcony enclosures).
Remember, you might be on the other side of this conversation one day.
The bottom line
Pets can make strata living warmer and friendlier, but they come with responsibilities. Most issues can be solved with a mix of courtesy, communication, and knowing the rules. Handle it well, and you can keep your building both pet-friendly and neighbour-friendly no barking matches required.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Readers should seek independent legal and professional guidance relevant to their specific circumstances and jurisdiction
