"With so many tenants planning to get a pet when the rules change, we could certainly see a boom in new owners across England. For anyone who’s thinking about making this move, remember to consider all the ways it will affect you"
- Rhys Jones - Go Compare
Changes to rules for renters and landlords could result in a wave of new pet owners across England, according to new research. The study explores tenants’ views and the potential impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on pet ownership.
Introduced to Parliament in September 2024, the Renters’ Rights Bill aims to improve conditions for private tenants. One of its measures would make it easier for renters to keep pets, requiring landlords who wish to refuse a request to provide a fair reason.
Go.Compare recently surveyed renters to assess whether they would act once the legislation comes into effect. The results show that just over two-fifths (42%) of renters who previously had a request denied or have not asked would choose to get a pet once the bill takes effect.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is expected to take effect between October 2025 and January 2026. Based on the survey findings, this could result in more than one million new pets across England.
New pet owners are expected to include both cat and dog enthusiasts. More than half (56%) of renters planning to get a pet said they would like to bring a cat home, while 52% would choose a dog.
Experts are urging prospective pet owners to consider all costs carefully before bringing an animal into their home. When asked about insurance for a new pet, 8% said they did not plan to get cover, and a further 18% were unsure. If these renters do not take out insurance, it could affect around 269,000 households, leaving pets without proper protection.
Rhys Jones, pet insurance expert at Go.Compare, said, “Seeing the Renters’ Rights Bill introduced was a really positive step for tenants in the private rental sector, as it will hopefully give them more security and stability, and improve overall conditions. Measures like this one, making it easier for renters to keep pets, will also help to make renting a more comfortable and flexible housing option for many.
“With so many tenants planning to get a pet when the rules change, we could certainly see a boom in new owners across England. For anyone who’s thinking about making this move, remember to consider all the ways it will affect you. Making sure you have pet insurance in place should be one of your first steps, giving you peace of mind should your pet be injured or fall ill. Don’t forget to let your contents insurance provider know, too, so they can update your policy.”
