The third reading of the Renters’ Rights Bill took place on 21st July and it will now return to the House of Commons after the summer recess, where MPs will consider amendments made by the Lords. Once both Houses agree on the Bill, it will go to the King for Royal Assent and become law in early 2026.
Previously, we’ve looked at the Bill as a whole, and at the following aspects of it in detail:
And here, we’re examining another part of the Bill: the proposal that landlords will no longer be able to automatically refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet. In a bid to make renting fairer for tenants while also ensuring landlords’ rights stay protected, the Bill will require landlords to consider tenants’ requests and provide reasons for refusal. Landlords will be allowed to ask tenants to pay an additional ‘pet deposit’ – equivalent to three weeks’ rent.
It’s worth noting that the Bill is not finalised and amendments may still be made. But here’s what landlords and letting agents need to know about the proposed changes as they currently stand…
The new rules in detail: No more blanket bans
Under the Renters’ Rights Bill, landlords will no longer be able to impose blanket bans on pets in rental properties. Instead, tenants will have the legal right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords must consider each request individually. Refusals must be reasonable and justified – for example, if there are leasehold restrictions, if other tenants in the property have severe allergies, or if the property is unsuitable for a specific pet.
Landlords will have 28 days to respond to a written request. They may ask for additional information, such as pet references or vet records, but must make a final decision within a week of receiving that information.
Safeguards for landlords
While the Bill strengthens tenants’ rights, it also introduces safeguards for landlords. The latest version of the Bill will allow landlords to require an additional pet deposit from tenants – equivalent to three weeks’ rent. This option was chosen as an alternative to requiring tenants to pay for pet damage insurance. The provision for a pet deposit aims to address concerns about property damage and maintenance costs, offering landlords a financial safety net.
If a landlord wishes to refuse a pet request, they must provide a clear, reasonable explanation – such as property size, pet suitability, or existing leasehold prohibitions. It’s worth noting that research by the University of Huddersfield found that 76% of landlords who had allowed tenants to have pets did not find any damage in their rental properties, and 73% didn’t see an increase in wear and tear due to pets.
Tenants who feel a refusal is unfair will be able to challenge the decision through the new Landlord Ombudsman or the courts.
Pros and cons: The landlord’s perspective
While it’s certainly essential to consider the risks of allowing tenants to have pets, there are in fact several benefits. For example, someone whose lifestyle accommodates the care of a pet is likely to value stability and be financially secure – two factors that make for a reliable tenant. Here we lay out the pros and cons of allowing pets in rental properties:
Pros
- Wider tenant pool: Nearly half of UK renters have pets or would like to, so allowing pets can reduce void periods and attract more applicants
- Longer tenancies: Pet owners often stay longer, valuing stability for their animals and reducing turnover rates
- Competitive rents: Pet-friendly properties are in demand, and landlords may be able to charge a modest rent premium. Plus, pet owners are likely to be more financially stable
- Better tenant relationships: Allowing pets can improve tenant well-being and satisfaction, fostering better landlord-tenant relationships
Cons
- Property damage risk: Pets can cause wear and tear, from scratched floors to stained carpets, potentially leading to higher maintenance costs
- Neighbour complaints: Noise, odours, or pet mess can lead to friction with neighbours or other tenants, especially in flats or shared buildings
- Limited refusal grounds: Landlords must justify refusals, reducing flexibility and potentially leading to disputes or legal challenges
- Insurance limitations: Landlords can request a pet deposit from tenants, but would have to put in place their own pet damage insurance
- Suitability issues: Some properties, such as small flats or leasehold units, may not be appropriate for certain pets
What next? Considerations for landlords & letting agents
There are several actions you can take to prepare for both the new legislation in its entirety and for the possibility of allowing tenants to have pets:
- Update your tenancy agreements: Clearly outline pet policies, including expectations for pet behaviour, and property care/maintenance requirements
- Request references and vet records: Assess the suitability of the pet and the responsibility of the tenant before granting consent
- Conduct regular inspections: Monitor the property for pet-related damage and address issues promptly
- Communicate proactively: Engage with tenants about their responsibilities and address neighbour concerns early to prevent disputes
The Renters’ Rights Bill’s pet provisions represent a major shift for the UK rental sector. While the changes offer tenants more flexibility and security, they also require landlords to adapt their policies and practices. By understanding the new rules and implementing sensible safeguards, you can protect your rental properties while benefiting from a broader, more reliable tenant base.
We’re here to support you as the Renters’ Rights Bill becomes law. With in-depth local knowledge, extensive lettings experience, and a comprehensive understanding of landlords’ needs, we are well-placed to offer advice and guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. For the latest news on the Renters’ Rights Bill and its impact on landlords, keep an eye on our blog or contact us directly.