Propertymark has published a renting with pets guide for its letting agent members, setting out how to handle pet requests fairly, reduce risk and prevent disputes between landlords and tenants.
The guide covers the different rules across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In England, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 gives tenants the right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords must consider each request and cannot refuse unreasonably.
The renting with pets guide explains the 28-day timeframe for considering a request and gives examples of circumstances that may count as reasonable grounds for refusal. In Scotland, the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 includes pet protections. Propertymark also says agents and landlords should be aware that deposit rules and amounts differ across the UK.
Propertymark encourages agents and landlords to raise pets from the outset, as pet ownership becomes a bigger factor for people looking for a home. The guide argues that allowing pets can make a property more desirable, encourage longer tenancies and help tackle isolation and loneliness. It cites research suggesting pet-related damage is less than half that of non-pet-related damage, and that tenants with pets stay longer on average. Propertymark says this can bring financial benefits for landlords who support responsible pet ownership.
The guide sets out practical steps for agents, including:
- assessing whether a property suits the type and size of pet
- checking lease or headlease restrictions
- asking tenants for information such as landlord and veterinary references and a pet CV
- arranging meetings between landlords, tenants and pets where appropriate, so all parties
- understand expectations before the tenancy starts
Propertymark's renting with pets guide also stresses inventories and regular inspections. Clear records can protect both landlords and tenants and give evidence if a dispute arises over damage or the condition of a property.
"Pets are an important consideration for many people looking for a rented home, and the way pet requests are handled can have a significant impact on the landlord, tenant and the wider tenancy," said Henry Griffith, senior policy and campaigns officer at Propertymark.
"Our new guide is designed to give property professionals practical advice to help them navigate these conversations confidently and consistently. Good processes, clear communication and thorough record-keeping can help agents and landlords manage risk while also supporting responsible pet ownership."
"The regulatory position is also evolving across the UK, so it is increasingly important that agents understand the rules that apply in their area and can give landlords and tenants accurate, practical guidance. By taking a proactive approach to pet requests, agents can help prevent disputes and support longer, more sustainable tenancies."
