Renting with pets

Since the government announced they had changed their model Tenancy Agreement, there has been some confusion over whether landlords can still choose to accept pets in their property.

If the UK government’s new model Tenancy Agreement is used, landlords will have to seek consent for pets as the default position.  They will have to object in writing within 28 days of a written pet request from a tenant and provide a good reason to decline this.

To clarify, use of the new model Tenancy Agreement is voluntary and there has been no change in the law regarding the keeping of pets. 

Tenancy deposits remain capped under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, but rent can be increased for applicants with pets as long as it is advertised correctly.