Renting with pets

Finding a rented home when you have a pet hasn’t always been easy. Many renters worry about whether landlords will say no, what’s allowed, and how to avoid problems later on. Renters’ Rights Act changes coming in May 2026 mean tenants now have the legal right to request a pet. That doesn’t mean renting with a pet is a guaranteed yes, but there are things you can do to help you find a home that works for both you and your pet.

If you’re planning to rent soon and have a pet, or you’re already renting and thinking about getting a pet in future, here’s some helpful info and tips.

Can you rent with pets?

Yes, many renters do – but pets aren’t automatically allowed in every rented home.

Most landlords will want to consider:

• The type of property
• The type and size of the pet
• Any restrictions linked to the building or lease

Asking to keep a pet

If you want to keep a pet in a rented property, you’ll usually need to:

• Make a request to the landlord
• Be clear about the type of pet you have or plan to get
• Wait for a response before bringing the pet into the property

Being open from the start helps set expectations and avoid problems later.

When landlords may say no

Landlords can refuse a pet request in some situations, for example if:

• The property isn’t suitable for that type of animal
• There are restrictions in a leasehold building
• The pet would pose a safety or practical issue (such as, an existing tenant had an allergy)

A refusal should be based on the specific property and pet, rather than a blanket “no pets” approach.

Your responsibilities as a pet‑owning tenant

Having a pet doesn’t change your responsibilities as a tenant. You’re still expected to:

• Look after the property
• Prevent damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Keep communal areas clean and safe

Any damage caused by a pet may be taken into account at the end of the tenancy.

Why the inventory matters even more with pets

If you’re renting with a pet, the inventory report becomes especially important.

A clear inventory helps:

• Record the property’s condition when you move in
• Show what damage (if any) was already there
• Reduce the risk of disputes when you move out

Taking photos and checking the inventory carefully can help protect your deposit.

Tips for finding pet‑friendly rentals

If you’re searching for a home with a pet:

• Be upfront with agents and landlords
• Consider location, outdoor space and layout
• Be prepared to explain why you think your pet would be a good for the property you’re looking to rent

Clear communication can make the process smoother for everyone involved.

Writing a pet CV: how it can help

A pet CV is a simple way to introduce your pet to a landlord or letting agent. It’s not required, but it can help show that you’re a responsible pet owner and give reassurance about how your pet will be cared for in the property.

Think of it as a short, factual overview that helps landlords understand your pet at a glance.

What to include in a pet CV

A good pet CV doesn’t need to be long. Clear, relevant information is usually more helpful than lots of detail.

Basic details

Include:

• Type of animal
• Breed and size
• Age

This helps landlords understand whether the property is suitable.

Behaviour and routine

You might want to mention:

• Whether your pet is house‑trained
• How long they’re typically left alone
• Whether they’re used to living in rented homes or flats

Keep this part factual and honest.

Health and care

You could include:

• Confirmation that vaccinations or flea treatments are up to date
• Whether your pet is neutered or spayed (if applicable)
• Registration with a vet

This can help reassure landlords about hygiene and wellbeing.

How you’ll look after the property

It can be helpful to explain:

• How you’ll minimise damage, for example, if you plan to use furniture covers
• How often you clean or groom your pet
• How you’ll manage outdoor access or shared areas

This shows you’ve thought about the property, not just your pet.

Optional extras

If you have them, you could also add:

• A short reference from a previous landlord
• A photo of your pet

These aren’t essential, but some landlords find them useful.

When to share a pet CV

You could share a pet CV:

• When making an offer on a property
• When formally requesting permission to keep a pet
• If an agent asks for more information

Being upfront early on can help avoid any misunderstanding later. A pet CV can support your request, but it doesn’t guarantee approval. Landlords will still need to consider whether the property is suitable and whether there are any restrictions.

Keeping your pet CV clear, honest and focussed on practical details gives it the best chance of helping your application.

FAQs

• Can a landlord refuse pets in a rented property?

  Landlords can refuse pets in some circumstances, for example if the property isn’t suitable or there are restrictions linked to the building (decisions should be based on the specific property and pet). The important change under the Renters’ Rights Act is that landlords must now consider tenants’ requests to keep a pet, rather than saying no from the outset.

• Do I need permission before bringing a pet into a rented home?

  Yes. You should always ask for permission before bringing a pet into a rented property. Bringing a pet in without agreement could put your tenancy at risk. It’s worth noting that you’ll need to get permission for each pet you want to bring into the property.

• Does renting with a pet change my responsibilities as a tenant?

  No. You’re still responsible for looking after the property, preventing damage beyond normal wear and tear, and following the terms of your tenancy agreement.

• Will having a pet affect my deposit?

  Your deposit can only be used for damage beyond normal wear and tear. This applies whether or not you have a pet, which is why a clear inventory at the start of the tenancy is especially important.

• Are some types of homes more suitable for pets than others?

  Yes. Property type, size, layout and access to outdoor space can all affect whether a home is suitable for certain pets. These factors are often considered when landlords review pet requests.

• What is a pet CV?

  A pet CV is a short document that introduces your pet to a landlord or letting agent. It usually includes basic details about your pet, their behaviour and how you’ll care for the property.

• Does a pet CV guarantee my pet will be accepted?

  No. A pet CV isn’t required and doesn’t guarantee approval, but it can help give landlords clearer information when they’re considering a pet request.