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Pets in rental properties

The Renters’ Rights Bill will change pet ownership for tenants in the private sector. For the first time, tenants will have the legal right to request a pet, and landlords will be required to consider such requests fairly and reasonably.

Key takeaways

What you need to know

  • Tenants have a legal right to request a pet.
  • Landlords must respond within 42 days and cannot unreasonably refuse.
  • Tenancy agreements should be updated to reflect the new rules.
     

What's changing?

Under the new legislation, tenants will be allowed to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. This marks a major departure from the current system, where landlords can impose blanket bans on pets.

The process for pet requests

  • Tenants must make a formal written request to keep a pet in the property.
  • Landlords must respond within 42 days.
  • A refusal must be based on reasonable grounds, such as property suitability or insurance restrictions.

What counts as reasonable refusal?

Landlords will still retain the right to refuse a pet but must provide a reasonable justification. cannot refuse simply because they prefer not to allow pets. The legislation will not explicitly cover all grounds for reasonable refusal due to the diversity of the private rental sector. A tenant may escalate a complaint to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman if they feel the refusal is unfair.

Reasonable refusal can include

  • The property is unsuitable for pets (e.g. a small flat with no outdoor space).
  • The pet poses a risk to other tenants or the property.
  • The building has restrictions (e.g. leasehold clauses or shared accommodation rules).
  • If the landlord has allergies which may prevent them from visiting the property.
     

Updating tenancy agreements

Landlords should review and update their tenancy agreements to reflect the new rules. Letting agents should also ensure their processes are aligned with the new legislation.

Updated tenancy agreements should

  • Outline the process for requesting a pet.

  • No longer include a blanket ban on pets.

Enforcement of anti-discrimination laws

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces new enforcement powers to ensure landlords and agents comply with anti-discrimination measures. These rules are designed to protect prospective tenants and ensure fair access to housing.

The new rules mean

  • Local councils will be able to impose civil penalties on landlords and anyone acting directly or indirectly on their behalf up to £7,000 for breaches.

  • Landlords and letting agents can receive multiple civil penalties for continued and repeat breaches.

  • Tenants will be able to pursue a breach through their local council and seek redress through the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman and letting agent redress schemes.

Got a question about your rental property?

If you have any questions for our team about the Renters' Rights Bill and what it means for you as a landlord, please contact your nearest lettings branch or fill in your details below and we'll get back to you. 

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