Pet Requests Guide

Overview

Phase 1 of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces a new, statutory 28-day process for tenants to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must follow this process and respond within 28 days with a decision and written reasoning.

Key Changes

The Right to Request

Tenants now have a statutory right to request permission to keep a pet. You cannot simply refuse without following the new process.

The 28-Day Window

You must respond in writing within 28 days of the tenant's request. If you do not respond in time, the request is deemed to be accepted and the tenant may proceed with the pet.

Reasonableness Test

You can only refuse a pet request if refusal is reasonable. What counts as reasonable includes:

• Safety concerns (dangerous breed, aggressive history)
• Health and allergies (other tenants in building, staff)
• Damage risk (specific property constraints, e.g., rented furniture)
• Tenancy agreement terms (if compliant with Phase 1)
• Suitable care concerns (e.g., pet left alone all day)

Written Reasoning Required

If you refuse, you must provide written reasoning. You cannot simply say "no." Your explanation must be specific to the pet and the circumstances.

The 28-Day Process: Step-by-Step

The statutory pet request process runs over 28 days and involves four stages: receiving and acknowledging the request, assessing it against the reasonableness test, responding in writing with your decision and reasoning, and managing any dispute if the tenant challenges your refusal.

Miss the 28-day window and the request is deemed accepted automatically — there is no extension or appeal.

What Counts as Reasonable Refusal

You can only refuse a pet request if refusal is reasonable.

The law defines specific categories of reasonable and unreasonable refusal. The key distinction is between property-related concerns (which can be valid) and blanket restrictions (which cannot). The toolkit includes the full reasonableness matrix with examples for each category.

Common Scenarios

Every pet request is different. The toolkit includes scenario-based guidance covering the most common situations — from breed restrictions to multi-pet households.

What NOT to Do

• Ignore the request: If you do not respond within 28 days, the request is deemed accepted
• Charge a pet deposit or fee: Not permitted under Phase 1 unless expressly provided in law (currently not)
• Refuse without reasoning: You must explain your decision if you refuse — vague language like "for safety reasons" is not sufficient

If the Tenant Disputes Your Refusal

Tenants can refer disputes to the First-tier Tribunal, which will assess whether your refusal was reasonable based on your written reasoning and evidence.

Key Dates

• 1 May 2026: Phase 1 took effect. The 28-day pet request process becomes law.
• 28-day response deadline: Count from the day you receive the request
• If no response: Deemed accepted on day 29

Sources

• Renters' Rights Act 2025 (c. 26)
• MHCLG Implementation Roadmap
• Civil Penalties Guidance

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the Renters' Rights Act 2025 and government guidance as at June 2026. It is not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a solicitor. This guide does not cover all exceptions or edge cases.