04 Mar 26
Contributed by Des Taylor, Landlord’s Defence
The government has issued detailed guidance on how landlords must handle tenant requests for pets under the Renters’ Rights Act.
Pet requests must be considered individually and responded to in writing within strict statutory timeframes.
Landlords will have 28 days to respond, with limited scope to request further information before a final decision is required.
Refusals must be objectively justified and clearly explained, with reasons grounded in property size, lease restrictions, legality or health considerations affecting other occupiers.
General concerns about damage, past experiences or personal preference will not meet the legal threshold.
Once consent is given, it cannot be withdrawn, and the presence of the approved pet cannot later be treated as a breach.
Failure to follow the process correctly creates court exposure and dispute risk.
Landlords who understand the framework early can manage pet requests lawfully while protecting their position.
If you want clarity on how to handle pet requests without creating legal exposure, get advice early.
