Introduction

One of the most talked-about changes under the Renters’ Rights Act is the shift around pets in rental properties.

For years, many landlords simply applied a blanket “no pets” policy.

That approach is no longer sustainable.

Tenants Now Have the Right to Request Pets

Under the new rules, tenants can formally request to keep a pet — and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse.

This doesn’t mean you have to accept every request.

But it does mean:

• You must assess each case properly
• You need a valid reason to refuse
• Blanket bans will not hold up

“No pets allowed” is no longer a strategy — it’s a liability.

What Counts as a “Reasonable Refusal”?

This is where most landlords will get it wrong.

Valid reasons may include:

• Property size (e.g. small flat vs large dog)
• Lease restrictions (e.g. block management rules)
• Unsuitable property layout

Weak reasons:

• Personal preference
• “I’ve always said no pets”
• Fear without evidence

If challenged, you’ll need to justify your decision.

The Real Risks (and How to Control Them)

Let’s be honest — landlords worry about:

• Property damage
• Smells and wear
• Complaints from neighbours

These are valid concerns.

But unmanaged fear leads to bad decisions.

Proper approach:

• Take a structured view on suitability
• Ensure clear tenancy terms
• Consider insurance-backed protection

This is about control — not avoidance.

Insurance Is Now Part of the Conversation

With pets more common in rental properties, insurance becomes important.

You may need to:

• Review your landlord insurance policy
• Consider pet-related damage cover
• Set clear expectations within tenancy terms

Handled correctly, this reduces risk significantly.

Tenant Demand Is Changing

Here’s the commercial reality:

• More tenants have pets than ever before
• Many struggle to find suitable rental properties
• Pet-friendly landlords can access a wider tenant pool

Done right, this can actually be an advantage.

What Should Landlords Do Now?

Don’t sit back and wait — landlords who don’t adapt will get caught out.

Immediate steps:

• Review your tenancy agreements
• Ensure compliance documentation is up to date
• Reassess your tenant selection process
• Understand your legal grounds for possession

How Easymove Supports You

At Easymove, we help landlords navigate these changes without increasing risk.

We:

• Assess tenant suitability properly
• Structure tenancy agreements to protect you
• Manage properties proactively
• Help balance flexibility with control

Final Thoughts

The Renters’ Rights Act is changing the way landlords approach tenants — and pets are a big part of that shift.

Saying “no” to everything is no longer viable.

But saying “yes” without structure is just as risky.

The landlords who win will be the ones who manage this properly.

⚠️ Reality Check

If your current approach is:

• “No pets, full stop”
  You’re already behind.

If your approach is:

• “Let’s accept everything”
  You’re inviting problems.

The only option that works now is:

Controlled flexibility backed by proper management