How to request a pet in a rented property
Written by the RentingRights team, based on official GOV.UK guidance. Last reviewed: 2 June 2026.
Many tenants assume a no pets clause is the final word, but the law changed on 1 May 2026. Under the Renters Rights Act 2025, you now have a real right to ask to keep a pet, and your landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.
Your new right to request a pet
The Act gives tenants in England the right to request permission to keep a pet in their home. The landlord must consider the request and cannot unreasonably refuse it. They also have to respond within a set timescale, so they cannot simply ignore you and let the matter drift. This is a significant change from the old position, where a no pets clause was often treated as final.
How to make the request
Put your request in writing, by email or letter, so you have a clear record. Describe the pet you would like to keep, such as the type, breed, and size, and explain how you will look after it responsibly. Mention any relevant experience, whether the animal is house trained, and how you will prevent damage or noise. Being specific and reassuring makes it harder for a landlord to claim a refusal is reasonable. Keep a copy of what you send and note the date.
What a landlord can ask for
A landlord is allowed to require that you take out pet insurance, or to pay the reasonable cost of the landlord's own insurance, to cover any damage the pet might cause. This protects the landlord while still allowing you to keep your pet. What they cannot do is refuse without a good reason. A reasonable refusal might apply where a lease for a flat genuinely forbids pets, or where the property is clearly unsuitable for the animal, for example a large dog in a tiny flat with no outside space.
What makes a refusal unreasonable
A refusal is likely to be unreasonable if it is based on a general dislike of pets, or applied automatically without looking at your specific request. The landlord should weigh up the actual circumstances, including the type of pet and the nature of the property, rather than relying on a blanket policy.
If your request is refused
If you think the refusal is unreasonable, ask the landlord to explain their reasons in writing. A clear written reason helps you judge whether the refusal really is justified. You can challenge an unreasonable refusal, and the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman can help resolve disputes about pet requests without going to court. Keep copies of all your messages in case you need them later.
For the official position, read the GOV.UK guidance on the Renters Rights Act, or return to the RentingRights homepage for more free guidance.
Frequently asked questions
- Can my landlord refuse to let me keep a pet?
- Since 1 May 2026 a landlord cannot unreasonably refuse a request to keep a pet. They must consider your request properly and respond within a set timescale rather than ignoring it.
- How do I ask my landlord for permission to keep a pet?
- Put your request in writing by email or letter. Describe the pet, including type, breed, and size, and explain how you will look after it responsibly. Keep a copy and note the date you sent it.
- Can a landlord make me pay for pet insurance?
- Yes. A landlord can require you to take out pet insurance, or to pay the reasonable cost of their own insurance, to cover any damage the pet might cause. They cannot use this as an excuse to refuse without good reason.
- What counts as a reasonable refusal?
- A refusal may be reasonable where a lease for a flat genuinely forbids pets, or where the property is clearly unsuitable for the animal. A blanket no pets attitude without a specific reason is unlikely to be reasonable.
- What can I do if my pet request is unreasonably refused?
- Ask the landlord to explain their reasons in writing. If you think the refusal is unreasonable, you can challenge it, and the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman can help resolve disputes about pet requests.
- How long does a landlord have to respond?
- A landlord must respond to a written pet request within the timescale set by the rules, so they cannot simply ignore you and let the matter drift. If they miss the deadline, follow up in writing and keep a record.
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Ask your question freeDisclaimer: RentingRights provides legal information only, not legal advice. This information reflects the law in England as of May 2026 and is sourced from GOV.UK under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Laws and guidance change, so always verify against current GOV.UK guidance before taking action. We are an independent service operated by Olivian Group Ltd and are not affiliated with or endorsed by the government. For advice on your specific situation, consult a qualified housing solicitor or contact Shelter on 0808 800 4444.