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17/12/25 3:30 pm
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Pet ownership among UK renters continues to climb, prompting major legal and practical updates for landlords. The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has now received Royal Assent, introducing new rights for tenants requesting to keep pets but also reshaping the landscape for landlord protection and pet insurance requirements. Here’s what every landlord needs to know, including practical steps and recommended resources.
Under the Act, tenants now have a statutory right to make a written request to keep a pet, and landlords cannot impose blanket “no pets” policies without first considering each case on its own merits. Government guidance and recent legislative debates confirm that landlords must respond in writing within 28 days, and refusals must be based on reasonable grounds (for example, property size, pet suitability, lease restrictions, or allergies of other tenants).
Importantly, earlier draft provisions—which would have allowed landlords to compel tenants to arrange pet damage insurance as a condition of consent—were removed from the Act in July 2025. This means landlords cannot legally require tenants to purchase such insurance. Instead, landlords should protect themselves using their own specialist insurance policies, and with clear, up-to-date tenancy agreements that set out pet-related responsibilities.
For full legislation updates and analysis, see Total Landlord’s rent with pets guidance.
Allowing pets is now a legal right for tenants to request, and landlords must have a process in place to assess these requests fairly. However, landlords remain liable for protecting their investment. Pet damage—such as scratched floors, chewed woodwork, soiled carpets, and lingering odours—can create substantial costs.
With deposits capped under the Tenant Fees Act, many landlords have faced challenges recovering expenses after pet-related incidents. That’s why specialist protections, such as pet damage protection insurance, are an essential part of a prudent landlord strategy.
Benefits of pet-friendly, well-managed rentals include:
For guidance on the practicalities and risks of renting to pet owners, see mydeposits’ landlord guide to lets with pets.
If you’re unsure about valid refusal grounds or want to update your tenancy agreements, consult the practical tools, model clauses, and checklists at Total Landlord.
If a landlord refuses a tenant’s pet request and the tenant believes the refusal is unreasonable, tenants may escalate their case to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or the courts. Until an official decision is made, tenants may not keep pets in the property against the landlord’s express refusal.
For expert support on structuring agreements and handling escalation (including possession claims if pet damage results in serious contract breaches), landlords can turn to Landlord Action.
For comprehensive guidance on insurance, model clauses, and the evolving policy landscape, read more on Total Landlord's Knowledge Centre or subscribe to LandlordZONE's news updates.
Can landlords require pet insurance from tenants under the new Act?
No, the Renters’ Rights Act does not let landlords mandate tenants pay for pet damage insurance. Landlords should instead use their own pet-related insurance for protection.
What counts as a reasonable refusal for a pet request?
Valid reasons might include property unsuitability, restrictions in head lease, or allergies/phobias from other residents. Blanket bans or refusals without detailed explanation can be challenged.
What about deposits and extra rent for pets?
Extra “pet deposits” or surcharges are prohibited by the Tenant Fees Act. Property damage should be dealt with via the main deposit, protected by schemes like mydeposits.
How should landlords approach policy updates?
Immediately review and revise tenancy agreements, and consider specialist insurance to reflect the new rights and responsibilities.
Are disputes common, and how are they resolved?
Disputes must go through the Ombudsman or courts. Landlord Action can advise on possession or legal responses if pet-related problems arise.
Where can I learn more or get further support?
Visit Total Landlord’s pets and insurance guidance and mydeposits lets with pets guide.
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