The UK is a pet-loving nation and our pets are part of our families. But not everyone has been lucky enough to enjoy the companionship of a pet in their homes. In England, there are 11 million tenants in the private rented sector and, until recently, it has been incredibly difficult to find accommodation that allows for pets.
Now, new rules have come into force for renting with pets that have changed that. Pets can no longer be refused from rental properties unless there’s a good reason. Here, we’ll explain the new pet ownership rules and how they affect both tenants and landlords.
Why pets matter
Pets are loving companions, giving unconditional emotional support. This enhances a tenant’s well-being and mental health, helping to combat loneliness and reduce daily stress. They can help create a warm and comforting atmosphere, turning a rental property into a true home.
No more blanket bans on pets
Until 1st May 2026, when the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act came into effect, landlords could impose blanket bans on having pets in their properties without having to give a reason.
Now, that has changed, with the new legislation giving tenants the right to request permission to keep a pet in their rental homes. Landlords must now consider this request fairly and only refuse on reasonable grounds.
When can a landlord refuse a pet?
Each case has to be determined on an individual basis as it won’t always be suitable to have a pet in a rental property. The government has given guidance on some reasonable grounds for refusal, as detailed below.
- The property isn’t suitable for the type of pet. For example, it may be too small for a large dog or for several pets.
- Pets have been prohibited by the superior landlord for a leasehold property.
- The pet is illegal to own.
- Another tenant living in the property suffers from allergies.
Unreasonable grounds for refusal can include:
- Previous issues with other tenants who had pets
- A personal dislike of pets
- Concerns that a pet will cause damage to the property
How does a tenant request to keep a pet?
A tenant must put their request to keep a pet in writing to their landlord. Details of the pet must be included, such as the type and size of pet they want to keep, and any other relevant information they can think of. They need to reassure the landlord that they will be a responsible pet owner and will minimise the impact that having a pet may have on the property.
To help tenants make a suitable request, the RSPCA has published a template letter on its website.
What happens next?
Once a tenant has made their request in writing, the landlord has 28 days to respond. If they refuse consent and the tenant believes this decision to be unfair, the tenant has the right to challenge the decision. This can either be done via the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or by applying to court.
What these new pet rules mean for tenants
Very often, people who already have pets struggle to find rental accommodation that accepts them. This leaves them with the heartbreaking decision to part with them if it means losing their home. Animal shelters have long cited housing issues as reasons for so many people having to give up their pets. Now, it’s hoped these new rules on renting with pets will change that, reducing the number of pets that shelters take into their care as a result of housing restrictions.
For others who’ve wanted pets in their rental homes but have previously been denied permission, this is finally an opportunity to have the animal companion they’ve been hoping for.
How are landlords affected by the new pet legislation?
For landlords, it’s not quite as welcome news as it is for tenants as they’re understandably concerned about their properties. Their properties are expensive assets and there’s a fear of damage, such as stained carpets, chewed furniture and scratched floors. They’re concerned about complaints from neighbours as a result of noise, mess or odours, especially if their rental property is a flat.
Tenants already have to pay a deposit and no additional deposit or fees can be charged by landlords for those with pets. Landlords also cannot insist that tenants have pet damage insurance. Instead, if the deposit isn’t enough to cover the costs of the damage caused, a landlord will need to take their tenant to court to claim the extra amount needed.
Landlords can help to mitigate their risk by creating a fair and transparent pet policy and by taking out insurance that covers pet damage if this isn’t already included in their landlord insurance policy.
Despite the concerns, rental properties that are pet-friendly tend to attract tenants who prefer to stay put for longer. It also widens the pool of prospective tenants. Allowing tenants to have pets also helps foster a better relationship with their landlord. With clear pet policies, regular inspections and proactive communication with their tenants, landlords should find this arrangement smooth to navigate and beneficial in terms of their relationship with their tenants.
Get professional guidance on the new renting with pets legislation
If you’re unsure about how this or any other aspect of the Renters’ Rights Act affects you, give us a call on 01322 907 000. Our mortgage and protection brokers are here to help you understand and handle these changes. Whether you wish to look at refinancing options, enhance your insurance with cover for pet damage or discuss your portfolio structure, we can offer you expert, impartial advice.