One of the biggest mistakes tenants make when requesting a pet is simply asking, “Can I get a dog?” or “Can I have a cat?”
Instead, put a proper case forward.
Landlords and letting agents want reassurance that you’ve thought about how the pet will fit into both the property and your lifestyle. The more detail you provide, the more responsible and credible you appear.
For example, if you rent a one-bedroom flat and would like a cat, explain why the property is suitable. Perhaps you are looking to adopt an indoor cat, the property offers plenty of space for it, and you have identified where litter trays, feeding stations and sleeping areas will be located.
If you are requesting a dog, explain why the location is appropriate. Is there a park within walking distance? Do you work from home? Will the dog rarely be left alone? These details help reassure a landlord that the pet’s welfare has been considered.
If you already have multiple pets, explain how the property works for them. Which rooms will they use? Where will they sleep? How will you manage exercise, cleaning and day-to-day care? Showing that you have considered the practicalities can make a big difference.
The key message is simple: demonstrate that this is a considered decision, not an impulsive one.
A landlord is far more likely to approve a pet request when they can see the tenant has thought everything through and has a clear plan in place.
Remember, you are not simply asking for a pet. You are showing that you are a responsible pet owner who has matched the right pet to the right property.
That can often be the difference between a yes and a no.
Final Thoughts
Many landlords don’t like the new laws. They feel forced to have pets and the wording ‘unreasonably’ refuse is totally unhelpful and open to interpretation.
Landlords tend to be rationale people. They want ‘facts’ not ‘fiction’. The more you can show you have thought about adopting a pet and the practicalities the better. The last thing a landlord wants is an impulsive tenant, who decides to have a cat or dog in their property and has no idea about looking after pets.
Yes, there is a 5 week security deposit; however, some landlords have had bad experiences with pet friendly rentals and in their minds, that is not enough to cover any potential damage.
Call to Action
If you’re planning to rent in the UK with a pet, start the right way.
The Rent Ready Service (With Pets) gives you the clarity, strategy, and confidence to compete in today’s market, before you lose time, money, or opportunities.
About the Author – Russell Hunt
Pets Lets Expert Insight
This article was written by Russell Hunt, co-founder of Pets Lets, a specialist service helping tenants secure pet-friendly property to rent in London and across the UK.
With more than 30 years of experience in the London property market, Russell works with tenants, landlords and estate agents to make renting with pets possible in practice, not just in theory. His work focuses on helping pet owners present strong applications, prepare properly for competitive markets, and navigate landlord concerns around pets.
Through Pets Lets, Russell supports UK tenants with pets as well as educates landlords with UK properties on the benefits of dog friendly rentals and cat friendly rentals in London and across the UK.
Russell also runs the community “Relocating to the UK with Pets”, helping thousands of members understand the realities of travelling to the UK with pets.
Learn more about pet-friendly renting advice and services at Pets Lets
For further guidance on renting with pets, visit Dogs Trust’s Lets with Pets
