Can landlords still ban pets?

Blanket bans will no longer be enforceable under the [[renters-rights-act-england|Renters' Rights Act 2025]]. Landlords must consider each pet request individually and can only refuse on reasonable grounds.

What are reasonable grounds for refusal?

The property is too small for the pet, the pet type is unsuitable (e.g. large dog in a studio flat), the landlord's insurance prohibits pets, or the property is a listed building where pets could cause damage.

How does the pet request process work?

The tenant submits a written request. The landlord must respond within 42 days, either granting permission (with or without conditions) or refusing with written reasons. Silence is treated as consent in some circumstances.

Can landlords charge extra for pets?

Landlords can require pet insurance or a higher deposit within the legal cap (five weeks' rent). They cannot charge a separate 'pet fee' under the [[tenant-fees-act-england|Tenant Fees Act 2019]].

When do pet rights take effect?

Expected alongside other Renters' Rights Act provisions from 2026. Monitor gov.uk for the exact commencement date.

Tenancies & Possession7 min readLast reviewed 3 July 2026

Pets in Rented Homes in England: Rights Under the Renters' Rights Act

The Renters' Rights Act gives tenants in England the right to request a pet — and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. Learn the process and reasonable grounds for refusal.

England only. This guide applies to private rented property in England. Wales and Scotland have separate legal frameworks — dedicated guides will be published separately.

Key takeaways

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 gives tenants the right to request permission to keep a pet.
Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a pet request but can set reasonable conditions.
Blanket 'no pets' clauses in tenancy agreements will no longer be enforceable.
Landlords can request pet insurance or a higher deposit (within legal limits) as a condition.
Commencement date for pet rights is expected alongside other RRA provisions in 2026.

Pet rights under the Renters' Rights Act

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces a right for tenants in England to request permission to keep a pet in their rented home. Landlords cannot impose blanket 'no pets' policies and must consider each request on its merits.

Pet request process

Step

1	Tenant	Submit written pet request (type, breed, size)
2	Landlord	Respond within 42 days
3a	Landlord	Grant permission (with or without conditions)
3b	Landlord	Refuse with written reasons (must be reasonable)
4	Tenant	May challenge unreasonable refusal via redress scheme

Pets in Rented Homes in England: Rights Under the Renters' Rights Act

Key takeaways

Pet rights under the Renters' Rights Act

Pet request process

Reasonable grounds for refusal

Permitted conditions for pet ownership

Agent checklist

Frequently asked questions

Official sources

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