Renters’ Rights Act pet requests: what landlords should do
How landlords in England should receive, consider and answer a tenant pet request, including the 28-day response period.
From 1 May 2026, tenants can request permission to keep a pet. A landlord should consider the individual request, respond within the applicable period and give a written reason if refusing.
Start with the actual request
Ask for useful information about the animal rather than deciding on a general assumption. Relevant details may include the type, number, size, training, enclosure and supporting information.
- Record the date received
- Keep the request in writing
- Consider the particular property and animal
Keep track of the response date
The landlord normally has 28 days to answer. Where further information is reasonably requested, the timing rule can give the remainder of the original period or an additional seven days after the tenant responds, whichever is later.
- Do not leave the request in an inbox
- Record when further information is requested
- Calculate the revised date after the tenant responds
Explain the decision
Approval, a request for information or refusal should be clear. A refusal cannot be unreasonable and should explain the reason in writing. General concern about possible future damage may not be enough on its own.
- Assess each request fairly
- State the decision and reason
- Keep the complete request history
Official sources
Rules can change and individual circumstances matter. Check the current official guidance: