Pets

BEFORE 1 MAY 2026

Whether you can keep a pet is usually controlled by your tenancy agreement (for example: “no pets” or “pets with permission”).
In practice, you normally need to ask your landlord/agent for written permission before getting a pet, even if your contract doesn’t mention pets.
If you keep a pet without permission where the contract requires it, you may be in breach of the tenancy.

FROM 1 MAY 2026

Tenants will have a stronger right to request a pet.
Your landlord must consider the request and must not “unreasonably” refuse it.
What counts as “reasonable” will depend on the circumstances, and the government has said it will publish guidance to help landlords and tenants understand how the new rules should work.
One clear example given in the official guidance: it will be reasonable to refuse if a superior landlord (for example, a freeholder or head landlord) prohibits pets.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Ask early and in writing, especially if you’re signing for the next academic year.
A simple message helps: what pet, size/breed (if relevant), and how you’ll manage noise/cleaning.
If you’re renting with others, agree the plan with your housemates too (pets can create disputes).
If you’re told “no”, ask why, and whether there’s anything that would change the decision (for example, extra information, pet references, or a trial period).

IF THE LANDLORD REFUSES OR CHANGES THEIR MIND

Under the post-1 May 2026 system, if you think a refusal is unreasonable, you may be able to challenge it through the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman once the ombudsman is introduced (expected 2028) or, in the meantime, through the County Court, which could enforce the rules if it believes the landlord is not meeting its obligations.

Because parts of the new system rely on rollout details, if you’re close to the changeover date, it’s sensible to ask the landlord/agent how they’re applying the new rules and keep the conversation polite and in writing.