Can Tenants Have Pets in Rented Properties in England?

Many renters wonder if their tenancy agreement allows pets, especially in England where demand for pet-friendly housing is high. Understanding what the law says and what steps you can take is crucial for making informed decisions about your home and your furry companions. This article explains your rights around pets in rented properties, recent updates in government policy, and what you can do if you think your landlord is being unfair.

What Does the Law Say About Pets in Rented Properties?

In England, renting rights for pet ownership have traditionally been subject to the landlord’s discretion. Under the commonly used Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), landlords can set terms in the agreement regarding whether pets are allowed.

The main legislation that governs most private residential tenancies is the Housing Act 1988^[1]. While this legislation does not specifically mention pets, it allows landlords and tenants to agree to their own contractual terms, including restrictions or permissions regarding animals.

Are Blanket No-Pets Bans Legal?

There is currently no law in England that outright prevents landlords from including a ‘no pets’ clause in the tenancy agreement. However, government guidance has changed to encourage landlords to be more flexible. From 2021, the government updated its Model Tenancy Agreement – the recommended template for new tenancies – to make consent for pets the default, and landlords must provide a good reason to refuse a pet request (such as flats unsuitable for animals).

Importantly, landlords still have the right to refuse pets, but blanket bans are now discouraged in government guidance. If your landlord uses their own tenancy agreement, it may still contain a no-pets clause—always check your contract.

Can Tenancy Agreements Be Changed to Allow Pets?

If your agreement says "no pets" or requires landlord consent, you can always request permission in writing. Landlords should consider each request individually and not simply refuse without reason. If you’re refused, ask for the reasons in writing. If you feel the refusal is unfair, you can escalate the issue, seek advice, or negotiate for a compromise such as additional cleaning at the end of tenancy.

Deposits, Pet Insurance, and Fees

• Tenancy Deposit: By law, landlords in England cannot ask for a higher deposit than the legal cap (five weeks’ rent for most tenancies). They also cannot charge a separate "pet deposit".^[2]
• Pet Damage Insurance: Landlords may ask renters to purchase pet damage insurance as a condition for allowing pets.
• Cleaning Fees: No upfront cleaning fees can be charged, though end-of-tenancy deductions for damage are allowed if there is evidence.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

There is currently no standard government form for requesting permission to keep a pet. Instead:

• Write to Your Landlord: Make a written request stating the type and breed of pet, and offer details about training, vaccination, and insurance. Ask for written consent. Keep all correspondence for your records.
• Model Tenancy Agreement: If you are starting a new tenancy or renewing, recommend to your landlord to use the Model Tenancy Agreement, which is pet-friendly by default.^[3]

If disputes arise around pets or related tenancy terms, you can seek dispute resolution through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England.^[4]

Action Steps If You Want to Keep a Pet

• Read your tenancy agreement carefully to see what it says about pets
• Ask your landlord in writing if you’d like to keep a pet, providing all relevant details
• If using or renewing a tenancy, suggest the Model Tenancy Agreement
• If refused, ask for the reasons in writing, and consider seeking free advice

FAQ

1. Can my landlord refuse my request to keep a pet?
   Yes, your landlord can refuse pet requests, but current government guidance asks them to provide a good reason for refusal rather than using a blanket ban.
2. Is it legal for the landlord to charge a higher deposit for having a pet?
   No, in England, deposits are capped by law and landlords cannot charge an extra deposit for pets. They may, however, request proof of pet damage insurance.
3. What if I already have a pet and my new tenancy agreement says no pets?
   If you already had your pet and did not conceal it from your landlord, try to negotiate a compromise. If your new agreement bans pets, you may need to seek written consent or consider moving if the landlord does not agree.
4. How do I formally challenge my landlord’s no-pets policy?
   Request written reasons for refusal. If you believe the response is unfair, you can seek advice or use the First-tier Tribunal if your dispute relates to tenancy terms.
5. Where can I get a pet-friendly tenancy agreement template?
   The government's Model Tenancy Agreement is pet-friendly by default and can be recommended to your landlord for future tenancies.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK Private Renting Guide – Official government overview of private renting regulations
• Shelter England – Expert advice and free helpline for renters
• Citizens Advice – Renting Privately – Independent advice on tenancy rights
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – For dispute resolution in tenancy cases

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1. Housing Act 1988 (Legislation.gov.uk)
2. Tenant Fees Act 2019 – Restrictions on Deposits
3. Government Model Tenancy Agreement
4. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – GOV.UK

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