What I like to offer is practical advice based on years of experience. I listen to many estate agents talking absolute ‘rubbish’, especially when it comes to pets and their interpretation of the new laws.
It is difficult for tenants with pets to know what and what not to believe. That is why I have set up Say Yes To Pets
I really do worry about people renting in the UK with dogs and cats living in or looking to rent in a big block. Too many assume that if the agent says it’s fine, so no need to ask the question. Are my pets allowed in the building?
I worry about people with pets relocating to the UK from overseas from countries like the US, relying long distance on misinformation which comes from estate agents who just ‘rush’ from one deal to the next, not thinking of the consequences. They just pass on the mess to the landlord or their management team.
I have had people call me saying their rental ‘fell through’. It turns out pets were not allowed, despite the agent saying yes to their pets. “We’re running out of time to find a new place. Can you help?”
One of the biggest misunderstandings around the new UK rental laws is this:
People think the Renters’ Rights Act means landlords and buildings can no longer say no to pets. That is simply not true.
Leasehold Buildings Still Have Their Own Rules. A huge number of flats in the UK are leasehold. That means the freeholder or management company can impose rules through the head lease including banning pets. No pets clauses in blocks still stand.
Think ahead. You may adopt a pet, make sure you can in your building. Some people don’t even ask about pets and they are buying in a building. Seen it all.
Huge Issue for Pet Owners
Existing tenants
Calling all people who rent with pets in buildings and big block in the UK. Before you approach your landlord, ask the simple question: “Are pets allowed here?”.
Seeing a dog in the lobby area is not enough proof. I am the Founder of Pets Lets. I have 30 years’ experience in UK property as a search agent and estate agent. I know how it all works.
Some concierges in blocks turn a ‘blind eye’ to pets in buildings, even though there is a no pets clause. Ask the managing agent if pets are allowed? Are there any restrictions, such as number of pets, breeds, even dog weight restrictions.
Finally make sure you have ALL IN WRITING.
New Tenants
Firstly, do not sign on the dotted line unless you have it IN WRITING that your pet(s) are allowed.
As above, seeing a dog in the building does not count. Taking on the word of an ‘inexperienced’ estate agent who wants to just get the deal done is not enough. Have it in writing from the freeholder and/ or managing agent.
Even if you don’t have a pet but may adopt one in the near future. Check pets are allowed in the block. Plan ahead, otherwise you’ll have to move out to have a ‘four-legged’ friend.
Landlords Often Cannot Override the Building Rules
Even if a landlord is happy to allow your pet, the building will say no.
Unless you can get a pets clause in your tenancy agreement, do not sign. Otherwise you are not protected.
Even if a landlord wants to allow pets, they may not legally be able to if the lease prohibits them.
The Renters’ Rights Act Has Created Confusion. The law focuses on landlord decisions not building-level restrictions.
Buyers Are Also Getting Caught Out. Buying a flat does not guarantee pet ownership rights. Leasehold rules still apply.
Final Thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Act improves tenant rights but it does not override leasehold law. That’s the bit most people are missing.
When it comes to lets with pets, it is a great step in the right direction. Sadly, it is not a ‘blanket’ yes to pets. Nothing is legally enforced. The wording ‘unreasonably’ refused has left agents, landlords and people in general ‘scratching their heads, as to exactly how that is interpreted.
The Governments’ intentions are positive. The execution has been poor.
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
