The right to request a pet: how it works in 2026
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent late last year, introducing new protections for tenants wishing to keep pets. This guide focuses on Section 14 of the Act, which came into force in April 2026, allowing private renters to request permission from their landlord to have a pet without facing discrimination or arbitrary refusal.
In 2026, tenants are now able to submit formal requests for pet ownership under specific conditions outlined by law. These changes aim to address the previous lack of clarity and fairness in how landlords handled such requests, ensuring that all tenant requests are evaluated on reasonable grounds rather than being subject to blanket bans or excessive fees.
What the law actually says
Section 14(2) of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 provides tenants with the right to formally request permission to keep a pet. The tenant must submit this request in writing and provide a valid reason for their desire. Such as health benefits or emotional support. Landlords are required by law to respond within 14 days from receipt of the written application.
Section 3 of the Tenant Fees Act 2019 prohibits landlords and letting agents from charging fees related to pet permissions beyond what's reasonably necessary for administrative costs associated with assessing a tenant's request (such as background checks or consultation with third parties).
How this changes the pre-2025 position
Prior to the Renters' Rights Act 2025, tenants were often at the mercy of their landlord's discretion regarding pet ownership. Landlords could refuse requests without providing clear reasons and frequently charged arbitrary fees for consideration. This created an uneven playing field where many renters felt coerced into renting pet-free properties or faced discrimination.
The new law now mandates a formal request procedure, setting out clear timelines and requirements for both tenants and landlords. At The right to request a pet: how it works in 2026, it ensures that all pet-related decisions are based on specific criteria rather than personal bias, significantly altering the dynamics of tenant-landlord interactions in this area.
What this means for tenants
Tenants wishing to keep pets must follow a structured process. First, they should draft a formal request letter outlining their reasons for wanting a pet, such as companionship or medical assistance. The letter should include any relevant supporting documentation, like proof of disability if the pet is an emotional support animal.
Upon receiving this request, landlords are required by Section 14(3) to respond within 14 days with either approval or a justified refusal based on reasonable grounds. If denied, tenants may appeal the decision through mediation services or seek legal advice for further action.
What this means for landlords
Landlords must now handle pet requests systematically and transparently. They're required to assess these applications according to set criteria within 14 days of receipt. Reasonable grounds for refusal might include concerns about damage, allergies among other residents, or specific breed restrictions based on insurance policies.
However, landlords can't refuse a request solely due to personal preference; they must provide objective reasons that align with the Act's stipulations. This change ensures fair treatment and prevents arbitrary denials, building a more equitable rental environment for both parties.
Common questions and edge cases
Q: Can I have multiple pets?
A: Yes, but you need to make separate requests for each pet, providing valid reasons for each animal's presence.
Q: What if my landlord is unresponsive?
A: If the landlord fails to respond within 14 days, consider sending a follow-up letter and possibly seeking mediation or legal advice.
Q: Is there an exception for service animals?
A: Service animals are exempt from typical pet restrictions. Tenants can provide documentation confirming their need for a service animal without needing permission from the landlord.
Q: Can I appeal a refusal?
A: Yes, tenants may seek alternative dispute resolution through mediation services or consult legal experts to challenge unreasonable refusals.
When to get professional advice
While the new provisions offer clearer guidelines, situations can still be complex. Tenants and landlords should consider seeking professional legal advice from a regulated solicitor if they encounter contentious issues such as repeated refusals without reasonable grounds or disputes over pet-related damages. Additionally, organisations like Citizens Advice or Shelter may provide initial guidance on dealing with these processes effectively.