How does the law affect landlords?
Legal responsibilities for landlords under the Renters’ Rights Bill
Letting to tenants with pets opens up a sizeable section of the rental market, yet just seven per cent of landlords in the UK currently advertise their properties as pet friendly.
At the same time, pet ownership peaked at 59% in 2020/21 and 2024 PDSA findings showed that 51% of UK adults own a pet, with 28% having a dog and 24% a cat. This mismatch is one of the reasons why the Government is taking action to make it easier for renters to keep pets in their homes.
With the introduction of the Renters' Rights Bill, tenants will gain the legal right to request a pet in their rental property. Landlords will only be able to refuse with a valid reason, such as if there is a restrictive head lease.
The Bill is expected to drive a rise in tenants keeping pets, making it more important than ever for landlords to understand how to manage this.
The Renters' Rights Bill introduces a new right for tenants in England to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse such requests. Valid reasons to refuse will be confirmed but might include:
A restrictive head lease
Property type is unsuitable for the pet (e.g., large dog in a small flat)
Excessive number of pets
Previously, the Government encouraged landlords to accept pets through its Model Tenancy Agreement, which included a clause stating that permission should not be unreasonably withheld. However, the agreement was optional and rarely used. The new Bill will give this guidance legal force, meaning landlords must consider all requests fairly. For more on the legal changes, read Total Landlord’s guide, ‘Renters’ Rights Bill: Will landlords have to accept pets?’
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 currently still applies, capping deposits at five weeks’ rent and banning additional pet-related fees. As such, landlords need alternative safeguards to manage pet-related risks.
Yes, I'm pet friendly
Sometimes, depends on the situation
No, I don’t allow pets at all
