Letting agents and landlords have been issued new guidance on dealing with requests from tenants to keep pets as rules across the UK continue to change.
Propertymark has launched a renting with pets guide covering the different requirements in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In England, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 gives tenants the right to request permission to keep a pet and requires landlords to consider requests rather than unreasonably refusing them.
Propertymark’s guidance covers the 28-day timeframe for considering a request and circumstances which could provide reasonable grounds for a landlord to say no.
PROPERTY RESTRICTIONS
Agents are advised to consider whether a property is suitable for the type and size of pet requested and to check for restrictions contained within leases or headleases.
Propertymark also suggests tenants could provide information including previous landlord and veterinary references or a “pet CV”.
Where appropriate, landlords, tenants and pets could meet before a tenancy begins to establish expectations.
Scotland is also introducing greater protections for tenants seeking to keep pets following changes contained in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, while Propertymark warns agents to understand the different rules applying across all four UK nations.
DAMAGE AND DISPUTES
The trade body recommends detailed inventories and regular inspections where pets are kept in rented properties.
It says clear records can protect landlords and tenants and provide evidence should a dispute subsequently arise over damage or the condition of a property.
Henry Griffith, Senior Policy and Campaigns Officer at Propertymark, says: “Good processes, clear communication and thorough record-keeping can help agents and landlords manage risk while also supporting responsible pet ownership.
“The regulatory position is also evolving across the UK, so it is increasingly important that agents understand the rules that apply in their area and can give landlords and tenants accurate, practical guidance.”
Propertymark says allowing pets can also make properties more attractive to tenants and potentially support longer tenancies.
