Say No to a Tenant’s Pet and You Could Be Breaking the Law – Landlords, Read This
It’s no longer a simple “no.” And that’s a problem.
For years, landlords have had the final say when it came to pets in rental properties. A straightforward clause, a polite refusal, and the matter was settled. But with the Renters (Reform) Bill shaking things up, that approach is now firmly in the past.
Tenants will soon have a legal right to request a pet, and as a landlord, you’ll need a valid, legally acceptable reason to say no.
Not just a preference. Not just a clause.
A reason the law agrees with.
And if you fail to respond within the new 42-day timeframe?
Your silence will count as a “yes.”
💥 Real Risk. Real Consequences.
Under the new legislation:
- Tenants will have the right to request permission to keep a pet.
- Landlords will be required to respond within 42 days with a reasonable refusal — or be assumed to have agreed.
- Blanket “no pets” policies will no longer be enforceable.
- Landlords can require pet insurance or damage cover as a condition of approval.
This is a huge shift. One aimed at making long-term renting more flexible for tenants — but one that puts the spotlight squarely on landlords to justify their decisions.
🧯 What’s a “Reasonable” Refusal?
This is where it gets complicated — and where the risk lies.
You may be able to decline a pet request if:
- The property is clearly unsuitable (e.g. a third-floor flat with no outdoor access for a large dog)
- Building-wide restrictions prohibit pets (e.g. leasehold blocks)
- There’s a health or safety concern
- The tenant refuses to take out pet damage insurance or meet reasonable conditions
But the key word here is “reasonable” — and that’s up for interpretation.
If your reasoning isn’t clear, fair, or proportionate, you could face a challenge.
✅ What Landlords Can Still Control
This doesn’t mean you’re powerless — far from it. You just need to be more strategic.
Here’s what you can still do:
- Include clear pet clauses in your tenancy agreements
- Request pet damage insurance or financial cover
- Set conditions around pet type, size, number, and conduct
- Define expectations on cleaning, inspections, and damage
Handled well, it’s possible to allow pets and protect your property.
🐶 Final Thought: This Isn’t Just About Pets
This is about how landlord–tenant relationships are evolving.
Old assumptions are falling away — and legislation is stepping in to fill the gaps.
You can no longer rely on “because I said so.”
You need a policy. A process. A plan.
Because if you’re not prepared, that simple pet request could turn into a legal dispute you didn’t see coming.
📞 Want to make sure your tenancy agreements are legally sound and futureproof?
Contact Nicholsons Estate Agents today. We’re helping landlords across Bassetlaw stay protected, compliant, and one step ahead.
