Propertymark has launched a new guide to help letting agents and landlords address requests from tenants who wish to keep pets. This guidance comes as regulations regarding renting with pets are changing across the UK, with different requirements in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
In England, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 gives tenants the right to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must consider these requests and cannot refuse them without reasonable grounds. Propertymark's guide details the 28-day period for considering such requests and outlines circumstances that may justify a refusal.
Scotland has also introduced protections for tenants with pets through the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. Propertymark emphasised the importance for agents to understand the specific rules applicable to their operating area, including variations in permitted tenancy deposits.
The guide advises agents to assess a property's suitability for the proposed pet and to check leases for any restrictions before agreeing to a request. Tenants can provide supporting information, such as references from previous landlords or vets, or a "pet CV." Propertymark also recommends detailed inventories and regular inspections to provide evidence in case of disputes over property condition or damage.