Pets in Rentals: Tenants Can Now Request Pets — And Landlords Must Respond Within 28 Days

What’s Changing?

Under the Renters’ Rights Bill, coming into effect in early 2026, tenants in England will gain the legal right to request permission to keep a pet in their rental property. More importantly, landlords will be required to respond within 28 days—and cannot unreasonably refuse the request.

This represents a major cultural and legal shift in private renting, where many landlords currently include blanket “no pets” clauses in tenancy agreements. Once implemented, tenants will finally have the statutory power to challenge these outright bans.

Why Is This Being Introduced?

The government is acknowledging a long-standing tenant frustration: being forced to choose between a home and a beloved pet. With pet ownership on the rise—especially since the pandemic—this reform addresses:

• Discrimination against pet owners, especially families and elderly tenants

• High rates of pet abandonment linked to rental restrictions

• The difficulty many tenants face in finding pet-friendly accommodation

The change is designed to strike a balance between tenant freedom and landlord protection, allowing responsible pet ownership while giving landlords some rights to say no under reasonable circumstances.

What Are the New Rules?

Here’s how the system will work:

• Tenants can submit a formal request in writing to keep a pet.

• Landlords must respond within 28 days.

• Refusals must be based on reasonable grounds, such as:

  • Building restrictions (e.g., leasehold rules)

  • Pet size/type incompatible with the property

  • Allergies in shared living spaces

• If the landlord doesn’t respond within 28 days, the request is automatically approved.

• Landlords may require pet damage insurance or a suitable arrangement to cover damage, given deposit caps currently limit protection.

What This Means for Tenants

This is a huge step forward for renters who previously had to hide pets, lie to agents, or give up animals to move. Tenants now have:

• A formal pathway to keep a pet legally

• Protection from blanket “no pets” clauses

• The right to appeal if a landlord refuses unreasonably

Tenants are still responsible for:

• Ensuring pets don’t damage the property

• Preventing noise, odours, or disruption to neighbours

• Covering the cost of any damage beyond wear and tear

This is not a free-for-all—but it levels the playing field for pet-owning renters.

What This Means for Landlords

Landlords can still:

• Refuse requests with valid reasons

• Specify conditions (e.g., no large dogs in small flats)

• Require tenants to take out pet insurance or agree to specific cleaning obligations

However, they must not ignore the request or refuse it arbitrarily. Doing so may trigger complaints through the Landlord Ombudsman or even legal action.

To comply, landlords should:

• Update tenancy templates to allow for pet request procedures

• Be prepared to assess pet requests individually

• Create a simple pet policy covering type, size, and behavioural expectations

In some cases, landlords may find that pet-owning tenants are more loyal and stable, resulting in longer tenancies and fewer void periods.

Pet Clauses and Practical Tips

Landlords may wish to:

• Use a Pet Agreement Addendum when granting permission

• Specify noise control, pet hygiene, and insurance terms

• Agree on routine inspections to check for damage

Tenants should always seek permission before moving in with a pet, provide information on the breed and temperament, and offer references where possible.

Final Thoughts

The right to request pets—and get a timely, reasoned response—signals a more compassionate and balanced rental market. This reform supports tenant wellbeing, respects landlord rights, and recognises that for many, pets are not just animals—they’re family.

As we move toward 2026, both landlords and tenants should prepare to adapt their expectations, paperwork, and communication practices. With the right approach, pet-friendly rentals can be a win-win for everyone involved.

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