Can my landlord refuse a pet under the Renters' Rights Act?
Tenants can ask for a pet, landlords must consider it fairly, and no extra rent or deposit can be charged. Here's how it works.
Tenants can request to keep a pet in writing, describing the animal, and landlords must respond within 28 days — giving a valid reason if refusing, such as a superior landlord's lease banning pets. Landlords cannot charge extra rent, a bigger deposit, or a one-off pet fee; doing so can mean a fine of up to £7,000. Each request must be considered fairly.
How to request a pet (for tenants)
Put your request in writing and describe the animal — the type, size and any relevant detail. Your landlord then has 28 days to respond. Setting it out clearly and responsibly gives your request the best chance of a fair hearing.
What counts as a valid reason to refuse (for landlords)
A landlord can refuse, but they must give a valid reason. A common example is where a superior landlord's head lease prohibits pets — something that can apply in leasehold flats. In an HMO, the interests of other tenants in the property are also a relevant factor. "No pets" can still be advertised as a preference, but every request still has to be considered on its own merits.
What you can't do
- Charge extra rent for keeping a pet.
- Ask for a larger deposit or a one-off pet fee — the standard deposit cap already covers potential pet damage (5 weeks' rent under £50,000 annual rent, 6 weeks at £50,000+).
- Require pet damage insurance as a condition — a landlord can suggest it but can't make it mandatory.
- Refuse a request without giving a valid reason within 28 days.
Assistance animals are separately protected under the Equality Act and that position hasn't changed.
Frequently asked questions
Can a landlord charge a pet deposit?
No. Landlords cannot charge extra rent, an extra deposit, or a one-off pet fee. The standard deposit cap already covers potential pet damage.
How long does a landlord have to respond to a pet request?
28 days. They must respond within that window and give a valid reason if refusing.
Can a landlord say 'no pets'?
They can advertise 'no pets' as a preference, but each written request must still be considered fairly on its own merits.
Hull landlords who'd rather have compliance, licensing and management handled for them — or tenants with a question about a notice they've received — can talk to the team at Property Central.