Can a landlord refuse a pet in England?

A landlord cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant's request for a pet. Each request has to be considered case by case.

How long does a landlord have to respond to a pet request?

The GOV.UK guide sets no deadline. A law-firm summary says 28 days. Check the Act and new guidance.

Can a deposit cover pet damage?

Yes. GOV.UK says a deposit can cover damage caused by a pet.

Can a landlord refuse a pet?

Tenants can request a pet, and a landlord cannot unreasonably refuse, under the Renters' Rights Act.

By Charles Worth · Last checked 29 October 2026

Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, tenants in England can ask to keep a pet, and the landlord must consider the request. GOV.UK says a landlord "cannot unreasonably refuse" it. The pet measures are part of the first phase, from 1 May 2026.

How a request is judged

GOV.UK says landlords must consider every request fully, case by case. Refusal is always reasonable if a superior landlord prohibits pets, for example where the property is leasehold and the lease bans them. GOV.UK says further guidance will be published on what else counts as reasonable.

How long a landlord has to answer

The GOV.UK guide sets no deadline. A summary of the Act by the law firm Bevan Brittan says the landlord must consider the request within 28 days and give valid reasons for any refusal. Check the Act and any new government guidance before relying on a specific period.

Pet damage

GOV.UK says a tenancy deposit can be used to cover damage caused by a pet. In rare cases where it does not cover the cost, the landlord could go to court for the balance. See returning the deposit for how deposits are handled.

If a request is refused

GOV.UK says tenants can take a dispute to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or to court. The Ombudsman is being introduced in a later phase of the Act, so check GOV.UK for its current status. Shelter and Citizens Advice can help with a specific case.

More on the new rules

See what changed under the Renters' Rights Act for the full list.

Common questions

Can a landlord refuse a pet in England?: A landlord cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant's request for a pet. Each request has to be considered case by case.
When is refusing a pet always reasonable?: GOV.UK says refusal is always reasonable if a superior landlord prohibits pets.
How long does a landlord have to respond to a pet request?: The GOV.UK guide sets no deadline. A law-firm summary says 28 days. Check the Act and new guidance.
Can a deposit cover pet damage?: Yes. GOV.UK says a deposit can cover damage caused by a pet.

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Sources

Last checked 29 October 2026. Found a mistake? Tell us.