For millions of renters across the UK, the dream of having a dog has previously felt out of reach. Landlords’ “no pets” policies have forced people to give up, hide, or delay pet ownership – with some even smuggling in their four-legged friends just to keep them close or being forced to pay hefty surcharges.
But the Renters’ Rights Act is soon set to shake up the rules on pets in rental homes. To help Brits better understand their rights and the implications of the new law, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist, Adem Fehmi, shares his expert tips alongside guidance from Alice Harris, Legal Director in the Property Disputes Team at leading law firm Birketts LLP.
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Why Renting With Pets in the UK Has Been Difficult for Many
“Before the Renters’ Rights Act, tenants had no automatic right to keep pets – it all depended on the tenancy agreement and landlord consent”, explains Alice Harris. Rover’s research shows just how tough the situation is:
- A third (34%) have previously been denied a property because of their pet or forced to pay a surcharge averaging £288.
- Only 17% of wannabe pet owners have ever asked their landlord – with many held back by fear of rejection (49%) or worries about how they’ll be perceived as tenants (21%).
And yet, demand is huge. 42% of renters dream of owning a pet, with many saying it improves their mental health, quality of life, and even rank above having children.
How the Renters’ Rights Act Will Change Things
“From 1st May, the new Renters’ Rights Act aims to shift the balance, giving tenants more power to challenge unfair refusals. For those wanting a pet, the most important things to know are:
- Tenants will be able to make a formal request in writing to keep a pet, which must include a description of the proposed pet. This right will be implied into all assured periodic tenancy agreements, meaning all tenants will have the same rights regardless of what is stated in their tenancy agreement.
- Landlords need to respond to the request within 28 days but a landlord can have extra time to respond if the landlord has asked for more information or if consent is required from a superior landlord.
- Consent cannot be unreasonably refused – only reasonable reasons such as property suitability or welfare concerns apply.
- No extra deposits or mandatory pet insurance can be demanded or requested by a landlord.
Can landlords still say no pets allowed under the Renters’ Rights Act?
“Not exactly,” says Alice Harris. “Landlords can still advertise a property as ‘no pets allowed’ when listing it. The right to request a pet under the Act only applies once you are already a tenant. At that point, you can make a written request for a pet, and the landlord must consider it fairly and cannot unreasonably withhold consent.”
Can I challenge my landlord if they refuse a pet under the new law?
Yes. Alice Harris explains that “when the new law is implemented on 1st May – even if you were refused in the past, if your landlord unreasonably rejects your new request, you’ll be able to challenge that decision under the new rules.”
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Tips for Getting Landlord Approval to Keep a Pet
Rover’s Canine Behaviorist and landlord, Adem Fehmi shares his tips on making a convincing case to your landlord.
- Match the Property to the Pet
Explain why your home suits your dog’s needs. Be upfront about their age, temperament, and energy levels – calmer, well-trained dogs are usually easier to accommodate, while puppies and young dogs may need extra reassurance for landlords.
- Prove You’ve Thought About Behaviour
Show how you’ll prevent or manage issues like barking, separation anxiety, or territorial behaviour. Having contact with an accredited trainer or behaviourist can demonstrate you’re ready to tackle problems before they arise.
- Demonstrate Damage Prevention
Outline the measures you’ll take, such as crate training, baby gates, or creating safe spaces. Make clear that you’re taking steps to minimise the risk of damage from chewing, digging, or toileting accidents.
- Share Training and Care Plans
Highlight your dog’s training history or plans you have in place. This shows you’re proactive and committed. Landlords are often reassured to hear that pets are kept in a consistent routine.
- Cover Care When You’re Away
Make clear your arrangements for when you’re out – whether that’s family support or using trusted sitters via Rover.com. Dogs shouldn’t be left for long periods (no more than two hours for puppies, or four hours for adult dogs). It can often lead to barking and damage, so demonstrating you understand this will put landlords at ease.
- Provide References
If possible, offer references from trainers, sitters, behaviourists, or previous landlords. These add an extra layer of reassurance about your reliability as both a pet owner and a tenant.
What can I do if my landlord refuses my pet request under the Renters’ Rights Act?
If your landlord refuses, Alice Harris says that they must provide a written explanation. “You should review the reason carefully as it must be based on reasonable grounds such as property suitability or welfare concerns. If the decision seems unfair, you’ll be able to challenge it through the new ombudsman service which is being introduced under the new law.”
The information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available as part of this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. Readers should contact their attorneys as necessary to obtain legal advice with respect to any particular legal matter that may be referenced in this article.
Information is correct as of 20th April 2026
