Pets in Rented Homes
At a Glance
For many people, pets are part of the family. However, finding rented accommodation that allows pets has traditionally been difficult, with many landlords advertising properties as “no pets”.
The Renters’ Rights Act introduced stronger protections for tenants who want to keep pets. If you’re already renting a home, you now have the legal right to ask your landlord for permission to keep a pet, and your landlord cannot unreasonably refuse your request.
However, the law doesn’t mean every tenant can automatically keep any pet they choose, and it doesn’t prevent landlords considering pets when deciding who to let a property to before a tenancy begins.
This guide explains what the law says, how to make a request, when a landlord can refuse and what your rights are if a dispute arises.
The New Rules for Pets
Since 1 May 2026, private tenants in England have stronger rights if they want to keep a pet.
If you’re already a tenant, you can make a written request asking your landlord for permission to keep a pet.
Your landlord must consider your request fairly and cannot unreasonably refuse consent. They must normally respond in writing within 28 days.
If they need more information about the pet before making a decision, they can ask for it. Once you’ve provided the information, they have the remainder of the original 28 days or an additional 7 days (whichever is later) to give you their final decision.
Does This Apply Before I Move In?
This is one of the biggest misunderstandings about the Renters’ Rights Act.
No.
The legal right to request a pet applies to existing tenants.
It does not mean landlords must offer a tenancy to someone who already owns a pet.
If you’re applying for a property, the landlord can still decide whether they wish to let the property to you. The statutory process for requesting a pet only applies once you’re already a tenant.
If you already own a pet, it’s usually best to be honest about this before signing your tenancy agreement.
How to Request Permission
If you want to keep a pet after your tenancy has started, you should make your request in writing.
Include as much useful information as possible, such as:
- The type of pet.
- The breed (if applicable).
- The age of the animal.
- Whether it’s neutered or spayed.
- Whether it’s house trained.
- Whether it’s vaccinated.
- Whether it’s microchipped (where applicable).
- Whether you’ve previously rented successfully with the pet.
Providing clear information can help your landlord make an informed decision.
If your landlord asks for additional information, reply as soon as possible to avoid delaying the decision.
Can My Landlord Refuse?
Yes.
The law doesn’t mean landlords must approve every request.
Instead, they must consider each request individually and must not refuse unreasonably.
Whether a refusal is reasonable will depend on the circumstances of both the property and the pet.
What Is a Reasonable Refusal?
Every situation is different, but examples that may be reasonable include:
- The property is genuinely unsuitable for the type or size of animal.
- Keeping the pet would breach another legal obligation or a superior lease.
- The pet would create a health or safety risk that cannot reasonably be managed.
- There is reliable evidence that the particular animal has caused serious problems previously.
Each request should be assessed on its own facts.
Simply saying “we don’t allow pets” without considering your request may not be enough where the statutory process applies.
Pet Insurance & Damage
One concern landlords often have is the possibility of damage caused by pets.
The Renters’ Rights Act allows landlords to consider this when responding to a request, but tenants cannot be required to make a prohibited payment as a condition of their tenancy. Government guidance explains that landlords and letting agents should not make pet insurance a compulsory condition of granting or continuing a tenancy. A tenant may choose to take out insurance voluntarily, but it should not be required.
Regardless of whether you have insurance, you remain responsible for any damage caused by you, your household or your pet, beyond fair wear and tear.
Your Responsibilities as a Pet Owner
Keeping a pet comes with responsibilities.
If your landlord agrees to your request, you should ensure your pet:
- Does not cause damage to the property.
- Does not create excessive noise.
- Does not become a nuisance to neighbours.
- Is properly supervised.
- Is kept in accordance with animal welfare laws.
- Does not create hygiene or pest issues within the property.
Looking after the property and being considerate to neighbours helps maintain a positive relationship with your landlord.
If Your Landlord Refuses
If your landlord refuses your request, they should explain why.
Read the reasons carefully and consider whether there is additional information you could provide to address their concerns.
For example, you might be able to:
- Provide references from previous landlords.
- Explain how the pet is trained.
- Confirm the pet is insured voluntarily.
- Offer veterinary records or vaccination details.
If you believe your landlord has refused without a reasonable basis, you may wish to seek independent advice about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a pet without asking my landlord?
No.
If you want to keep a pet during your tenancy, you should request your landlord’s permission in writing before bringing the animal into the property.
Does the law apply if I’m still looking for somewhere to rent?
No.
The statutory process applies to existing tenants, not prospective tenants.
Can my landlord say no because it’s a flat?
Possibly.
If the property is genuinely unsuitable for the type of pet, or another legal restriction applies (such as the terms of a superior lease), that may be a reasonable ground for refusal.
What if my pet causes damage?
You’re responsible for damage caused by you, your household or your pet that goes beyond normal fair wear and tear. Your landlord may be able to recover the cost of putting that damage right.
Can my landlord change their mind later?
If permission has been granted, it should not normally be withdrawn without good reason. However, if the pet later causes serious problems – for example, persistent nuisance or significant damage – the landlord may take appropriate action in accordance with the tenancy agreement and the law.
Key Takeaways
- Existing tenants have the right to request permission to keep a pet.
- Landlords must consider each request individually and must not unreasonably refuse consent.
- Requests should be made in writing and should include details about the pet.
- The statutory process applies to existing tenants, not people applying for a tenancy.
- Pet owners remain responsible for any damage or nuisance caused by their animals.
- Open communication and responsible pet ownership are often the best way to reach an agreement with your landlord.
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