The rules on pets in rented homes changed on 1 May 2026, when the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 came into force. Tenants now have a strengthened legal right to request a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. Blanket “no pets” policies are no longer lawful. This guide explains when you can and cannot refuse, how to handle a request, and how pet damage is dealt with. It is written for England.
This guide is part of our complete Renters’ Rights Act guide for UK landlords.
Key takeaways
- Tenants have a statutory right to request a pet, which you must consider on a case-by-case basis.
- You cannot unreasonably refuse, and blanket pet bans are not allowed.
- You normally must respond in writing within 28 days of the request.
- Pet damage is dealt with through the standard tenancy deposit — there is no separate pet deposit.
What changed in 2026
Before the Renters’ Rights Act, a landlord could generally refuse pets by relying on a clause in the tenancy agreement requiring consent. That position no longer applies. The Act inserts an implied term into every relevant tenancy giving the tenant the right to keep a pet with the landlord’s consent — and that consent cannot be unreasonably withheld. A general policy of refusing all pets is unlawful.
How a pet request works
- The tenant makes the request in writing, giving details of the pet.
- You must consider it and respond in writing, usually within 28 days. The clock can pause if you reasonably need more information, or if you need the consent of a superior landlord.
- If you refuse, you must give your reasons in writing.
When is a refusal “reasonable”?
There is no fixed list — each case turns on the pet, the tenant and the property. But the clearest example of a reasonable refusal is where a superior landlord or head lease prohibits pets; you cannot grant what your own lease forbids. Other potentially reasonable factors might include a property that is genuinely unsuitable for the specific animal. What you cannot do is apply an automatic “no” regardless of the circumstances. The government has published guidance for landlords on handling pet requests.
What if a pet causes damage?
Pet damage is handled the same way as any other damage: through the tenancy deposit, which is protected in a government-approved scheme. You cannot take a separate “pet deposit” on top of the standard deposit cap. In the rare case where the deposit does not cover the cost of the damage, you can pursue the tenant through the courts to recover the shortfall, as with any other deposit dispute. Keeping a thorough check-in inventory with photographs remains your best protection.
If a tenant thinks you have refused unreasonably
A tenant who believes a refusal is unreasonable can challenge it, ultimately by applying to the court. That makes it important to document your decision: respond on time, in writing, and set out genuine, property-specific reasons rather than a blanket policy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still have a “no pets” policy?
No. Blanket pet bans are unlawful under the Renters’ Rights Act. You must consider each request individually and can only refuse where it is reasonable to do so.
How long do I have to respond to a pet request?
Usually 28 days from the written request. This can be extended if you reasonably need more information or have to seek a superior landlord’s consent.
Can I charge a pet deposit or extra “pet rent”?
You cannot take a separate pet deposit on top of the standard deposit cap. Pet damage is dealt with through the normal tenancy deposit.
When did these pet rules take effect?
They apply to tenancies in England from 1 May 2026, when the main provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act commenced.
Written by the Landlords Portal editorial team. This article is general information for UK landlords, not legal advice. The Renters’ Rights Act is being implemented in stages and secondary regulations continue to be published — check the current position or take professional advice before refusing a request. Sources: Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act (GOV.UK), GOV.UK pet request guidance and the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
