Choosing a pet as a renter

Renting your property shouldn’t stop you giving an animal a loving home. With new rules in England, more renters can now ask their landlord if they can keep a pet. On this page we’ll guide you through how to choose the right companion and approach your landlord with confidence.

Renting with pets in England

There’s never been a better time for renters in England to think about adopting a pet. From May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act gives you stronger rights to ask your landlord if you can keep a pet in your home.

Landlords must consider requests fairly and can’t apply blanket bans. If they do refuse, they should have a specific reason, based on your situation. For example, if the property isn’t suitable for the type or size of pet, or there are restrictions linked to the building or lease.

If a decision feels unfair, you may be able to challenge it through the new Housing Ombudsman Service, or the courts.

The Renters’ Rights Act is good news for rescue pets, giving more animals in need the chance to find forever homes.

Under this, pet owners now have the following rights:

The right to request a pet: Tenants have a legal right to request to keep a pet in their home, and a landlord can’t unreasonably refuse this.
The right to challenge refusal: If a landlord refuses a pet request without good reason, tenants may be able to challenge this.
The right to greater transparency: Landlords have 28 days to respond (in writing) to pet requests. If they don’t respond, consent is implied.
The right to protection against discrimination: Tenants can’t be denied a tenancy solely because they have or want a pet without a good reason. Any damage would be covered by a tenants rental deposit.
The right to more stability: Ultimately, this legislation should result in positive benefits for pet owners, with less cases of people needing to rehome pets due to tenancy rules (the legislation doesn't apply to social housing).

Renting with pets in Wales

Renting rules aren’t the same across the UK. The Renters’ Rights Act applies to England only, and housing law in Wales works differently.

In Wales, renters can still ask about renting with a pet, and landlords should consider requests reasonably. However, they can still refuse, and tenancy rules are different. This means renters in Wales don’t always have the same level of tenancy security as in England, but it’s still worth asking about a pet and starting the conversation.

Tips on finding the right pet as a tenant

Taking the time to think carefully about renting with a pet helps you make the right decision and shows your landlord you’re being responsible.

Things to consider include:

Think about your space, including how much room there is, access to outdoor areas and how close neighbours are.
If you’re renting with a dog, consider their size, energy levels and daily exercise needs.
If you’re renting with a cat, make sure they’ll have safe indoor space and enough stimulation.
If you’re renting with a rabbit, plan for enough room for them to move freely, explore and exercise every day.
Consider how much time you’re at home, and whether you can meet your pet’s needs for care, company and routine.
Be realistic about noise, especially in flats or shared buildings, where neighbours live close by.
Show you understand what responsible pet ownership involves, including training, routine and ongoing care.

How to ask your landlord to allow pets

You might feel unsure when approaching your landlord about pets, but a clear, thoughtful request can make all the difference. Keep things simple and practical – explain what pet you’d like, why they’re a good fit for your home, and how you’ll care for them responsibly.

Where possible, try to speak directly with your landlord rather than going through a letting agent, as they may be more open to the idea.

Whether you’re asking a landlord for a dog, cat or another animal, showing you understand their needs and how you’ll manage them day to day can help build trust. Before writing an email or letter to your landlord asking for a pet, make sure you have the right information ready – follow our template below.

Landlord and pets letter template

When asking to keep a pet, make sure your request is reassuring and easy to understand, showing you’ve thought about both your pet’s welfare and your landlord’s concerns.

You might want to start with something simple like: “I’d like to request permission to have a [pet type] and wanted to share a bit more detail with you."

Having a few key details ready will help you draft a confident message or letter to your landlord.

Include information about:

Your choice of pet