With more UK renters becoming pet owners, one of the most common questions we hear is: can landlords refuse pets? Whether you’re a landlord trying to protect your property or a tenant hoping to bring a furry friend into your rental, understanding the rules is key.
This guide explores where the law currently stands, how recent changes affect you, and how buy-to-let investors can navigate this growing trend — without added hassle.
Can a Landlord Refuse Pets? The Short Answer
The short answer is yes — landlords can refuse pets, but the landscape is changing.
Under the current UK laws (as of 2025), landlords are not legally required to accept pets, but the government has been encouraging a more pet-friendly rental market. In fact, the 2021 update to the Model Tenancy Agreement included wording that landlords should not unreasonably withhold consent for pets.
However, it’s important to note:
The Model Tenancy Agreement is optional, not legally binding.
Landlords retain the right to refuse pets in private tenancy agreements unless specific legislation says otherwise.
So if you’re wondering, “Can a landlord say no pets?” — the answer remains yes, provided it’s clearly stated in the tenancy agreement.
Why Landlords Often Refuse Pets (And What’s Changing)
Common Reasons for Refusing Pets
Even though pet ownership is rising, landlords may have legitimate concerns about:
Property damage (scratched floors, stained carpets)
Noise complaints from neighbours
Allergies for future tenants
Insurance restrictions
Difficulty re-letting the property later
Government Push for Pet-Friendly Rentals
In 2023, the Renters Reform Bill proposed that tenants could request to keep a pet and that landlords could not unreasonably refuse. While still awaiting full rollout, the direction of travel is clear: the government wants landlords to accommodate responsible pet owners — and provide a valid reason if declining.
This is especially important for buy-to-let investors. If the market moves toward a more pet-inclusive model, understanding how to adapt can be crucial to staying ahead.
Can a Landlord Say No Pets in a Tenancy Agreement?
Yes — but it must be written into the tenancy agreement.
Landlords can include a “no pets” clause, which is enforceable unless changes to legislation override it. But under the evolving guidance, landlords may be asked to provide a good reason for denying a pet request. This could include:
The pet being unsuitable for the property type (e.g., a large dog in a studio flat)
The property being leasehold, with restrictions from the freeholder
Legitimate concerns around health and safety
A blanket refusal with no discussion may no longer cut it in future agreements. Landlords should be prepared to consider requests on a case-by-case basis.
Navigating Pet Policies as a Buy-to-Let Investor
Allowing pets can open your property to a wider tenant pool — especially as over half of UK households now own a pet. But it’s not without risk.
At Lifestyle Property Group, we help investors navigate exactly this kind of challenge.
Here’s how we support hands-free property investment even when tenants have pets:
Clear tenant vetting: We screen tenants (and their pets) thoroughly to protect your property.
Professional management: We coordinate property maintenance and regular inspections to catch any issues early.
Lease structuring: We draft and review tenancy agreements to include protective clauses (e.g., pet deposits or cleaning fees).
Local knowledge: We know which areas and property types work best for pet-friendly rentals in cities like Leeds and Sheffield.
If you’re worried that allowing pets might reduce your returns — it might actually do the opposite. Pet-friendly landlords often experience lower tenant turnover and higher demand.
Conclusion: Should You Allow Pets as a Landlord?
So, can landlords refuse pets in the UK? Technically, yes. But the tide is turning. The UK government is nudging landlords toward pet-friendliness, and savvy investors are already adapting.
If you’re a landlord or considering buy-to-let investment, it pays to stay ahead of legal trends and market demand. Allowing pets — with safeguards — might just make your rental more appealing and profitable.
According to Belvoir, marketing your property as pet-friendly not only boosts tenant demand but also enhances rental stability.
Our view? If the government is steering the market toward pet-friendly rentals, why wait? Secure great tenants now — those who are ready to stay longer and treat your property like home.
Start building a future-proof property portfolio today — speak to our experts.
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