Renting with pets has long been a divisive issue in the private rental sector. For many tenants, pets are non-negotiable members of the family. For landlords, concerns over property damage, noise, and cleanliness often lead to a default “no pets” stance. But government reforms over the past few years have started to shift the balance, bringing new responsibilities and new opportunities for both sides.
Here, we break down what’s changing, what it means in practice, and how landlords and tenants can navigate the evolving landscape.
The Current Legal Landscape for Pets in Rentals
The government’s updated Model Tenancy Agreement encourages landlords to consider pet requests by default. While this agreement is not mandatory, it’s an important benchmark for best practice in the industry where renting with pets is seen as viable and fair.
Tenants must make a written request to keep a pet, and landlords are expected to respond within 28 days. They can still decline, but only with a valid reason—such as unsuitable property size or another tenant with allergies. This aims to create a more balanced, pet-inclusive rental market without removing landlord discretion entirely.
Pet Insurance as a Permitted Payment
Renting with pets is a topic in a major legislative development currently in motion through the Renters Reform Bill. A proposed amendment to the Tenant Fees Act 2019, allowing landlords to require pet insurance as a permitted payment.
For tenants, this means:
- They can demonstrate financial responsibility without breaching the five-week deposit cap
- It becomes easier to negotiate pet ownership with landlords
For landlords, it provides reassurance that any pet-related damage will be financially covered—offering protection without needing to raise the deposit amount.
As of mid-2025, this measure is still under review and has not yet passed into law, but it is widely expected to form part of the final legislation.
The Dogs and Domestic Animals (Accommodation and Protection) Bill
Running alongside the Renters Reform Bill is another proposed piece of legislation that could reshape how pet-friendly lettings work.
The Dogs and Domestic Animals Accommodation and Protection Bill introduces the concept of a Responsible Pet Ownership Certificate, which would require tenants to prove:
- Their pet is microchipped
- Vaccinations are up to date
- The animal is well-trained and under control
This certificate would make it easier for tenants to prove suitability, while still allowing landlords to refuse pets in genuinely unsuitable properties—for instance, those lacking outdoor space or where pets pose a health risk to others.
While not yet law, the bill continues to gain traction and could support responsible pet ownership as a formal part of tenancy agreements in the near future.
The Tenant Fee Ban and Its Unintended Consequences
The original Tenant Fees Act 2019 had a significant knock-on effect for pet owners. With deposits capped at five weeks’ rent, many landlords lost the ability to request additional security for pets. This led to a sharp reduction in pet-friendly rental listings, as landlords viewed animals as too much of a risk.
By revisiting the law and allowing pet insurance, the government is aiming to resolve this issue and create a fairer balance—one where responsible pet owners aren’t penalised, and landlords remain financially protected.
What This Means for Tenants
Tenants with pets will have more negotiating power—especially if they can show they’re taking steps to manage risk. This includes:
- Offering to purchase pet insurance
- Providing references from previous landlords
- Showing up-to-date vaccinations or vet certificates
While landlords are not obliged to accept pets, these measures can make a compelling case.
What This Means for Landlords
Landlords should assess whether their properties are suitable for pets and consider whether requiring pet insurance could offset concerns. Key benefits include:
- Broader tenant pool, especially among long-term renters
- Lower risk of void periods if pets are permitted
- Additional protections once insurance becomes a permitted payment
It’s also worth reviewing tenancy agreements to ensure clauses are up to date and allow for clarity around pets, damages, and the responsibilities of both parties.
Final Thoughts
The private rented sector is changing—and the conversation around pets is at the heart of that change. From revised model agreements to pet insurance becoming a permitted payment, landlords and tenants alike need to stay informed.
While not every property will be suitable for animals, responsible pet ownership and reasonable safeguards can offer a middle ground that benefits everyone.
At Bowson, we support landlords in staying compliant and competitive, and we help tenants navigate these changes with confidence. Whether you’re letting out a property or looking to rent with your pet, we’re here to guide you through every step.
