Since 1 May 2026, private tenants in England have the right to ask to keep a pet, and landlords must consider the request and cannot refuse unreasonably. A well-prepared request answers the landlord's likely concerns before they are raised. This guide shows you how to make one and what to do next.
Step by step
Check your tenancy and building rules
Read your tenancy agreement for anything about pets and ask whether the building has a head lease or management rules that restrict animals. A superior lease that bans pets can be a valid reason for refusal. Knowing this first saves time.
Gather details about the pet
Note the type of animal, breed, age, size and temperament. Collect evidence of good care, such as vaccination and flea treatment records, microchip details and a reference from a previous landlord or vet if you have one. Think about where the pet will sleep and how you will prevent damage.
Write your request
Send a written request to the landlord or agent with the details of the pet and your plan for looking after it and the property. Offer practical reassurances, such as professional cleaning at the end of the tenancy. Keep the tone positive and factual.
Offer reassurance about damage
Under the new rules, a landlord cannot make pet damage insurance a condition of agreeing to your request, and cannot charge a higher deposit because of a pet. You can still offer reassurance, for example by checking whether your contents insurance covers pet damage. Check the current guidance on GOV.UK.
Respond to any questions
If the landlord asks for more information or suggests conditions, reply promptly. Agree any conditions in writing so everyone is clear. Keep copies of all messages.
Know what to do if you are refused
If the landlord refuses, ask for the reasons in writing. If you think the refusal is unreasonable, get advice from Citizens Advice or Shelter about your options, which may include a complaint through the relevant redress route. Do not bring the pet home until you have permission.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Tenancy agreement checked for pet clauses
- Head lease or building rules checked
- Pet details and care records gathered
- Previous landlord or vet reference obtained if possible
- Written request sent and dated
- Contents insurance checked for pet cover
- Any agreed conditions confirmed in writing
Practical tips
- A short, friendly pet 'CV' with a photo can help a landlord picture a responsible arrangement.
- Offer to add an agreed note about the pet to your tenancy paperwork.
- Check with your contents insurer whether they cover pet-related damage.
Common problems
The landlord has not replied to my request.
Landlords should normally reply in writing within 28 days, although they can ask you for more information first. Send a polite reminder with the original request attached and get advice from Citizens Advice or Shelter if there is still no answer.
I live in a flat and the freeholder bans pets.
If a superior lease prohibits pets, your landlord may be unable to agree. Ask to see the relevant clause and consider asking whether the freeholder would give consent.
The landlord agreed but wants a much larger deposit.
Deposits in England are capped under the Tenant Fees Act, and a landlord cannot increase the deposit because you have a pet. Get advice before paying anything extra.