Landlords across the UK are being warned that some popular online template providers continue to publish incorrect information about pet request deadlines, putting them at risk of breaching the law. Despite the clear 28-day window set out in the Renters' Rights Act 2025, certain websites and guides still suggest a 42-day period for responses.
The Act specifically states that landlords must respond to a tenant's pet request within 28 days under Section 11, with an additional seven days allowed if further information is required. Crucially, failing to meet this deadline means the request is automatically granted. Industry bodies and legal experts have consistently reaffirmed the 28-day deadline.
The persistence of the incorrect 42-day figure suggests it may have been inherited from earlier drafts of the Renters' Rights Bill, where a longer response period was initially proposed before being amended to 28 days. This outdated information has not been corrected in some widely used products.
For landlords who have already used or are about to use these templates, it's essential to verify the date the pet request was received and count 28 days from that point. If the window has passed, the request may have been automatically granted, regardless of the landlord's intended decision. They should exercise caution and ensure their practices align with the law.
This situation highlights the importance of landlords seeking accurate and up-to-date guidance, particularly when relying on template documents for critical statutory deadlines. Paid products that promise compliance must deliver accuracy and currency to be trustworthy.