Pets in Rental Properties Explained for North London Landlords

Like many landlords, you may have doubts about tenants having a pet in your rental property. However, the new law regarding pets in rental properties passed in 2025 means you need to consider your tenant’s pet ownership request seriously.

From a business perspective, allowing pets can also unlock a wider pool of renters. North West London can appeal to dog owners with the likes of Queen’s Park, Grange Park and Gladstone Park to walk well-behaved dogs on leads or let them loose in exercise areas. Not to mention, ONS stats shared in Pets Mag reveal that there are 1.4 million cats across London – making up over half of all pet owners, and a sizeable portion of potential tenants.

Read on to find out what landlords in Kilburn or Queens Park need to know about the new laws on pets in rental properties.

What are the current rules for pets in rental property?

It’s not illegal to refuse pets in a rental property, but landlords are encouraged to consider tenants’ written pet requests and respond promptly. It’s currently possible for landlords to have a blanket ban on pets in rental properties – but that’s about to change.

What will the new rules be under the Renters’ Rights Act?

As of 1 May 2026, landlords must consider tenants’ written requests for a pet, and give consent on a case-by-case basis. Under the new laws on pets in rental properties, no blanket bans on pets are allowed.

The bottom line is that you cannot unreasonably withhold consent to have pets or delay your decision, and must give your written response within 28 days. If you’ve requested further details within the time limit, you have until 7 days after receipt of the info to decide.

What will be reasonable grounds to refuse a pet?

The Renters’ Rights Act allows you to refuse a pet only where there are reasonable grounds to do so. But what exactly will the government permit? The Renters’ Rights Act guidance suggests that commonly accepted reasons could include:

• Unsuitable pets. If the pet is not suitable for the property then you can decline the tenants’ written request. For example, if is far too large – imagine a ‘Great Dane in one-bed studio flat’ situation.
• Too many pets. Landlords can refuse permission to have several pets where it’s not appropriate.
• Superior landlord permission. You can turn down the pet request if your superior landlord bans pets from the building.
• Landlord’s severe allergies. If you’re severely allergic to the pet in question, and wouldn’t be able to check up on the property as a result, you could refuse.
• Tenant allergies. You can refuse a pet on health grounds if another tenant is allergic to it.

Want to be a more informed landlord? The Renters’ Rights Bill impact on landlords covers pet requests directly, so it’s well worth getting up to speed on the changes.

Will landlords be able to demand pet insurance or a higher deposit?

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, landlords can request that tenants take out pet insurance, but cannot require tenants to have it, or charge a fee. These would be prohibited by the Tenant Fees Act 2019. Landlords can set a higher deposit, but within the existing limit. In fact, forcing tenants to take out pet insurance was hotly debated before the bill passed into law, with the suggestion ultimately being rejected.

What are the pros & cons of pets in rental property?

Landlords and tenants may have different viewpoints, but there can be benefits for both parties. Pets are often linked to greater life satisfaction. In fact, a survey by Purina found that 73% of pet owners see their pet as their best friend. But that’s not to say there won’t be challenges to allowing tenants to have pets in your rental property.

However, it’s worth examining the pros and cons before outright rejecting the idea:

Pros of pets in rental property

• High demand. With more potential tenants than pet-friendly properties, you may find tenants more quickly.
• Reduce void periods. Tenants with pets are likely to feel settled and stay longer.
• Responsible pet owners. Good tenant screening can help you identify considerate owners, who are likely to take good care of the property.
• Better working relationships. Tenants are likely to have a favourable opinion since you’ve granted permission for a pet.
• Happier tenants. Pets can improve tenants’ everyday quality of life and lead to a happier outlook.

Cons of pets in rental property

• Risk of damage. As with any tenancy, there’s a chance you’ll encounter pet-related damage.
• Noise nuisance. Is there likely to be a lot of noise that will upset the neighbours?
• Wear and tear. It all adds up, pets can add to your property’s wear and tear.
• Pet insurance costs. Landlords need to take out add-on pet damages cover.
• Pet fee limitations. You aren’t allowed to charge a specific pet fee, and deposits mustn’t exceed the standard limit of 5 weeks’ rent.

Good tenant management also means staying on top of how to deal with late rent payment, and knowing when should I sell my investment property becomes the right question to ask.

Ready for the new rules on pets in rental property?

Confused about the new legislation on pets in private rental sector properties? Our knowledgeable team at Portland will be happy to explain how our services can help landlords stay up to date with ever-changing laws.

Take a look here at our blog which covers the new rules on pets in rental property in detail, or browse similar subjects such as illegal subletting and how to deal with it.

Contact us today to discuss your West Hampstead, Neasden, Dollis Hill or Kensal Rise.