The law now
Pet requests
England · last checked 8 October 2026
Tenants can ask in writing to keep a pet. You must answer in writing within 28 days, and you can only say no for a good reason, such as a lease from the freeholder that bans pets or a home that's clearly unsuitable for that animal.
Do
- Reply in writing within 28 days. If you need more details, ask for them; you then have until the 28 days end or 7 days after they reply, whichever is later.
- Give your reasons in writing if you say no.
- Check your building lease and insurance before you answer.
Don't
- Don't refuse every pet as a blanket rule.
- Don't ignore a request. The tenant can take it to court and, once it exists, to the landlord ombudsman.
- Don't take an extra "pet deposit" above the five-week cap.
Deadlines
- Answer a pet request
- Within 28 days
Official sources
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Start freeThis guide is general information about the law in England, not legal advice. Laws and dates change, so check GOV.UK or ask a solicitor before acting on anything serious, such as asking a tenant to leave. Last checked 8 October 2026.