We’re a nation of animal lovers and it appears the Government is too. The Renters’ Rights Act gives all tenants a new right to request to keep a pet in their home.
And to make sure requests aren’t refused point blank, landlords will be forced to give a valid reason if they decline.
Before you rush out and speak to a dog breeder or cat rescue charity, be sure to fully understand the law change.
The new pet law explained
Permission to keep a dog, cat or other animal companion isn’t guaranteed. What you’ll get is a legal right to make a request to keep a pet.
Here’s exactly what the new law states
You can ask your landlord for permission to keep a pet – this must be done in writing
Your landlord must consider your request and they can’t unreasonably refuse
If they do refuse, your landlord must give you a valid reason, in writing
Your landlord must let you know their decision within 28 days of your request
Your landlord can ask for more information about the pet you wish to keep
If you’re not happy, you can challenge your landlord’s decision in court
Reasons why your landlord could refuse a pet request
The Government has provided examples of why your landlord can decline a pet request.
Your landlord can say no if the property is too small for the animal you want to keep. For example, they could refuse if you rent a studio flat with no green space close by but want to keep two large dogs that need regular exercise and access to a large garden.
Your landlord may also refuse if the freeholder of your building doesn’t allow pets or you want to keep an illegal breed.
Similarly, your pet request may be turned down if other tenants you live with are allergic to animals and you have communal or shared spaces.
Your landlord, however, must be reasonable when dealing with your request. They can’t refuse because they personally don’t like animals or if they’ve had a bad experience with pets in the past. Nor can they refuse if they’re worried about potential damage.
What to do if your pet request is refused
If you live in a leasehold home and the freeholder doesn’t allow pets, there are two possible solutions. You can ask your landlord to negotiate a Deed of Variation with the freeholder or request the freeholder scrap their ‘no pets’ clause. The freeholder doesn’t have to agree to either.
It’s important your landlord abides by a ‘no pet’ clause in the freeholder’s contract. If they breach it by allowing you to keep a pet, they can be evicted and you may be too. Find out more about the 'no pets' clause at Sam Conveyancing.
The Renters’ Rights Act also gives tenants new powers to challenge decisions. You can take your landlord to court if you think they’ve unfairly refused your pet request. The new private rented sector ombudsman will also handle pet disputes but this won’t be operational until later in 2026.
Extra pet fees are not allowed
Your landlord can’t charge you extra fees in order to keep a pet. Additional pet deposits are banned and your landlord can’t insist you pay for a specific pet insurance policy.
It’s also illegal for your landlord to deduct money from your deposit so they can pay for a pet insurance policy.
Exceptions to the pet law
There are different rules if you need an assistance animal to live with you. These are working companions trained to help people who are blind, deaf, epileptic or have physical mobility problems. Emotional support animals are not legally recognised in the UK and are subject to the same rules as domestic pets.
Increasing your chances of renting with a pet
Pet ownership in the UK is growing. Around 62% of households have at least one pet, with an estimated 36.5 million domestic animals keeping us company.
In contrast, the number of rentals advertised as pet friendly is falling. Hopefully more landlords will welcome cats, dogs and our feathered or furry friends from 1 May 2026.
The following advice should increase your chances of sharing your rental with a pet.
Top tips for renting with a pet
Julie Ford, a member of Zoopla’s lettings advisory board, shares her top tips for tenants looking to rent with a pet.
1. Be upfront about your pet
'One of the most crucial aspects of renting with a pet is honesty. Sneaking a pet into a rental property can lead to severe consequences, including eviction and loss of your security deposit.
'Always make an official pet request. Landlords appreciate transparency and it sets the tone for a trustworthy tenant-landlord relationship.'
2. Get a pet reference
'A pet reference can significantly improve your chances of securing a rental or making a successful pet request. This could be a testimonial from a previous landlord or pet professional (like a vet or pet sitter).
A pet reference can include information such as:
Confirmation your pet did not cause any damage to your previous property
Details about your pet’s behaviour and temperament
Evidence that your pet is well-behaved and house trained
Proof your pet is neutered and won’t be used to breed
'A positive pet reference from a third party reassures the landlord your pet is less likely to cause issues.'
3. Take out pet insurance
Although your landlord can't make you have a pet insurance policy, being proactive and taking one out is sensible.
'Pet insurance can put a landlord’s mind at ease but be sure any policy includes accidental pet damage. Having pet insurance demonstrates you are a responsible pet owner and have financial cover for repairs.’
4. Be prepared to pay a higher rent
'The Tenant Fees Act 2019 prevents landlords from charging additional pet deposits.
'However, landlords may advertise at a higher rent to try to compensate for damage, cleaning and extra wear-and-tear caused by pets.
‘Bear in mind that from 1st May 2026, landlords, or their letting agent, can only accept the advertised rent and nothing higher. Additionally, they’ll be limited to increasing your rent to once per year and only in line with market rates.’
5. Highlight your responsibility as a pet owner
'In addition to references and insurance, showcase your responsibility as a pet owner.
'Provide evidence of regular veterinary visits, up-to-date vaccinations and any training certificates.
'This information reassures the landlord that your pet is healthy, well-cared-for and less likely to cause problems.'
6. Look for pet-friendly properties
'When searching for a rental, focus on properties that explicitly state they are pet friendly. You can use Zoopla’s ‘pets allowed’ filter when shortlisting properties.
‘That’s not to say other homes are off limits. All landlords will have to consider, and not unreasonable refuse, a pet request by law. You could find a rental and make a pet request once moved in.
‘Remember, allowing a pet can be outside of the landlord’s control. This is especially true in blocks of flats where the freeholder has a strict ‘no pets’ clause in their contract with the leaseholder.’
7. Prepare a pet CV
'A pet CV is a detailed document that provides an overview of your pet’s personality, breed, behaviour and health. Preparing one is sensible if you want to move in with a pet you already own.’
A pet CV can include:
A photo of your pet
A description of your pet’s daily routine
Details about your pet’s training and any obedience classes attended
Health records and vaccination history
Regular preventative measures, such as flea and tick treatment
References from previous landlords or pet professionals
Dogs Trust has a template pet CV that you can use to show you're a responsible pet owner.
‘Including contact details for someone who could look after your pet in an emergency can also help.’
8. Be understanding of your landlord’s concerns
Research carried out on behalf of Dogs Trust and Cats Protection revealed 73% of landlords who allowed pets reported no problems. Accidents, however, do happen.
While your landlord can’t refuse a pet request because of potential damage, you can show willingness to cover costs, however unlikely it may be.
9. Introduce your pet to your landlord
If you’re an existing pet owner who has found the ideal rental, offer your landlord the chance to meet your pet. This is usually most relevant with dogs but can also work with cats.
Your landlord will be able to see how your pet interacts with strangers and how well behaved (and loveable) they are.
If you're comfortable with it, you could invite the landlord to your current home to show how you live with your pet.
Why a pet owner can make a good tenant
Pet-owning tenants may be more likely to settle and stay put for longer, reducing the turn-over of renters.
In fact, 26% of participants in the Dogs Trust and Cats Protection’s research said they would keep renting the same property if they were allowed to keep a pet.
The hassle and cost of finding new tenants can be problematic, so a renter who is likely to stay for the long haul is a massive benefit.
And renters with pets are often happier. The same research also found 98% of tenants said their dog had a positive impact on their life.
How to reduce stress when moving house with pets
Once you have permission to live with a pet, you’ll need to work out the best way to move them into your home and get them settled.
For animals who are territorial and don’t understand what’s happening, moving can sometimes prove so upsetting they become ill or even run away.
But there are measures you can take before, during and after the move that should smooth out the process.
1. Visit the vet
Speak to your vet about moving house with your pet as far in advance as possible. They may be able to give you some recommendations specific to your animal.
They may also be able to recommend a new veterinary practice in the area you’re moving to and give advice on getting your pet used to the car.
Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date, and you have all relevant records and certificates. If your pet needs medication for any existing conditions, ensure you’re stocked up before moving day.
It’s also worth asking the vet about getting some mild sedatives if your pet will be distressed by travelling.
Finally, update the details attached to your pet’s microchip just before you move. This could make things a lot easier if they make a run for it when you arrive.
2. Don’t stray from routine
Dogs and cats are both creatures of habit, so moving house can be very unsettling. It might be tricky with so much going on but try to keep as much of your pet’s normal routine in place as possible.
For example, if you usually shut your cat or dog in the kitchen at night, continue to do this in your new kitchen. Keep the position of the bed or basket as like-for-like as possible and make sure you don't change, or even wash, bedding, toys or blankets near to the move.
Cats should ideally be kept indoors for around two weeks. If you have a dog and are moving locally, keep your walking route the same, where possible.
3. Get pet carriers out early
Get out your pet’s basket or carrier and leave it somewhere in plain sight a few weeks leading up to the move.
This will give your cat or dog time to adjust to it being around. Often just the sight and smell of the carrier can be enough to cause panic.
If you wait until move day when things are disruptive enough already, you could create additional and unnecessary stress for your pet.
4. Issue a temporary ID tag
Ideally, you will have already updated your pet's microchip details with your new address. It’s also a good idea to attach a temporary tag to your pet's collar on moving day, with your new address and mobile number on.
Hopefully you won't need to rely on this but it's good to have a safety net in place.
Keep in mind that cats are prone to return to a familiar address for weeks, or even months, after a house move.
Warn whoever's moving into your old home this may happen. Give them your details and perhaps even a picture of your cat in case they get an unexpected feline visitor.
5. Consider a cattery or kennels
You might want to book your pet into a cattery or kennels for the day of the move (perhaps even one or two days either side). This saves them the stress and you the worry.
If this is your plan, make sure you book in plenty of time, especially over summer when they’re at their busiest. You may want to choose a venue that’s nearer to the house you are going to, rather than the one you’re leaving behind.
Keep in mind that catteries and kennels can also be stressful for pets. If you have family or friends that are happy to play host instead, that could be preferable.
Professional pet sitting services are another short-term option.
6. Make plans for your pet's journey
Allocate a designated ‘pet’ room in your old home during the day of the move. It should be secure, quiet and undisturbed. It’s a good idea to tape a sign to the door to that effect. Only move your pet at the last possible moment.
Dogs and cats should be secured in carriers, placed in a safe, suitable car boot or restrained using a dedicated pet seat belt.
Plan toilet stops for long distances. If you are breaking up the journey with an overnight stay, don’t forget to book pet-friendly accommodation.
Moving fish and reptiles is trickier as they can be sensitive to changes in temperature or motion. Make sure you seek advice on any specialist containers or equipment you’ll need.
7. Settle your pet into their new space
If you have a fish or reptile tank, setting it up when you arrive at your new home should be a priority. You’ll need to keep an eye on them too for the next few days.
Keep cats and dogs confined to one or two rooms and surround them with familiar belongings. This will provide comfort in a new environment.
Once things calm down and you have pet-proofed the property, allow your pet to explore at their own pace. Give them plenty of attention and treats so they’re reassured it’s a positive and safe place to be.
If you haven’t updated the details attached to your pet’s microchip, do it now.
They won’t like it but outdoor cats should be kept inside for around two weeks. This will reduce the prospect of them trying to return to their previous home.
Dogs should be taken out on gradually longer walks so they can get to grips slowly with their new patch.
8. Introduce your pet to the neighbours
Knocking on your new neighbour’s door with your cat or dog is the perfect icebreaker.
With any luck they'll be pet lovers themselves, and will keep an eye out for them in the future.
There are lots more top tips on the Dogs Trust’s dedicated Lets with Pets website, including free resources for tenants, landlords and letting agents.