Your landlord cannot just say no to a pet. Here are your new rights.

From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 gives tenants in England the right to request a pet. Your landlord must respond in writing within 28 days with either consent or a written refusal stating a valid reason. A blanket “no pets” policy is no longer sufficient on its own.

Tenant Pet Rights 2026

New right from 1 May 2026

Your landlord cannot just say no to a pet.

Here are your new rights.

From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 gives tenants in England the right to request a pet. Your landlord must respond in writing within 28 days with either consent or a written refusal stating a valid reason. A blanket “no pets” policy is no longer sufficient on its own.

If your landlord refuses unreasonably, you can take the dispute to the First-tier Tribunal. This page explains the new rules, what counts as an unreasonable refusal, and how to make your request properly.

The new pet rights — how they work in practice.

You have a right to request

You can make a written request to keep any pet at any time during your tenancy. The request should describe the pet (type, breed, size) and any steps you will take to prevent damage.

Your landlord has 28 days to respond

They must respond in writing within 28 days. Silence for 28 days is treated as consent. If they need more time (for example, to check with their own freeholder), they must tell you and request an extension.

Refusal must be in writing with reasons

A refusal must state the specific reason. 'No pets' is not sufficient alone. The reason must relate to a genuine characteristic of the property or tenancy, not just a general policy.

Pet insurance can be required

Your landlord may make consent conditional on you taking out pet insurance that covers property damage. This is the intended compromise — they cannot demand an extra deposit, but they can require insurance.

You can challenge an unreasonable refusal

If you believe the refusal is unreasonable, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). Keep all correspondence. The tribunal can direct consent be given.

Always make your request in writing

A verbal request does not trigger the 28-day clock or the written response requirement. Email your landlord clearly stating you are making a formal pet request under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and keep a copy of the email. If they ignore it for 28 days, that is treated as consent.

Pets in rented homes — before and after.

How to make your request

What to include in your pet request.

Your request does not need to be formal, but the more information you give your landlord, the harder it is for them to claim a reasonable basis for refusal. A good request includes:

Facing eviction or harassment over a pet?

Start My Claim can check any section 8 notice for validity and build your court defence — including challenging the ground if it relates to your pet. Fixed fee £127.

Tenant pet rights — FAQ

Sources: Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (c.34), ss.14–16 (tenant’s right to request a pet) · Housing Act 1988, Schedule 2 (as amended) · MHCLG: The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026