A request to keep a pet should be considered using the current rules for the tenancy, rather than an old article about a proposed Bill. This guide concerns assured periodic tenancies in England and was checked against GOV.UK on 4 November 2026.
The government says a tenant should ask in writing and describe the animal, including its size and space requirements where relevant. A landlord cannot refuse without a fair reason. The normal written-response period is 28 days. If further information is requested and supplied, the decision deadline is the later of the original period’s remainder or a further seven days.
GOV.UK gives examples of potentially reasonable refusals, including an unsuitable property size or an allergy affecting someone living there. General dislike of pets or problems caused by a previous tenant’s animal would usually be unreasonable grounds. The guidance also explains how to complain about an unreasonable refusal.
Prepare a clear request
For a tenant, make the practical details easy to understand. Identify the proposed pet and explain how it would live in the particular home. If there is a specific question about space or shared arrangements, address it directly rather than sending a generic assurance that all pets are well behaved.
Keep the request and any replies together. If the landlord asks for more information, answer the actual points raised and record when the response was sent. That gives both sides a useful account of the discussion if there is later uncertainty about the timing or decision.
Consider the individual circumstances
For a landlord or agent, separate a specific concern about this animal and this home from a general assumption. Write down what information is missing and why it matters. If another party’s restriction is relevant, obtain a clear explanation rather than relying on an unexamined statement that pets are never allowed.
Make the final response understandable. A tenant should be able to see what was considered and, if refused, why. Seek advice if there is a disability-related issue, a disputed restriction or uncertainty about the tenancy’s legal position.
Agree the practical arrangements
Permission should be followed by a sensible discussion of care, communication and how any reported damage would be handled. Do not confuse that conversation with permission to invent extra charges. Check the applicable rules before proposing payment or insurance conditions.
The aim is a properly considered request with a clear written outcome. This replaces a short archive stub and is general guidance, not a decision on an individual dispute.
Source: GOV.UK, Assured periodic tenancies: a guide for tenants, If you want a pet to live with you.