Propertymark issues new guide for agents on tenants with pets

Propertymark issues new guide for agents on tenants with pets

Propertymark has published a detailed guide to help letting agents manage pet requests in rented properties, reflecting the rights introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and related UK legislation.

Propertymark’s guide aims to assist letting agents in handling pet requests fairly and consistently, reducing disputes and clarifying responsibilities under evolving tenancy laws across the UK. It highlights practical steps for agents and landlords to support pet-owning tenants while managing risks effectively.

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which came into effect in England, grants tenants the right to request permission to keep pets, obliging landlords to consider such requests reasonably and within a 28-day timeframe. Propertymark’s new guide explains these legal requirements and offers advice on managing pet-related tenancy matters in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Legal framework for tenants with pets

In England, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 marks a significant shift by giving tenants statutory rights to request pet ownership, limiting landlords’ ability to refuse without reasonable grounds. The legislation requires landlords to respond within 28 days and outlines examples of what might constitute reasonable refusal, such as property unsuitability or lease restrictions.

Scotland has introduced similar protections through the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, reflecting a UK-wide trend towards recognising pet ownership as an important factor in tenancy agreements. The guide also notes variations in deposit rules and amounts across the UK, which agents and landlords must consider when managing tenancies involving pets.

Propertymark emphasises that agents need to be fully aware of the different legal frameworks applying in each jurisdiction to provide accurate advice to landlords and tenants and to ensure compliance with regional regulations.

Practical guidance for letting agents and landlords

The guide encourages agents and landlords to engage in open discussions about pets early in the tenancy process. It recommends assessing whether a property is suitable for the type and size of pet requested and reviewing any lease or headlease restrictions that might apply.

Propertymark suggests that tenants provide supporting information such as landlord references, veterinary records, and even a “pet CV” to demonstrate responsible ownership. Where appropriate, meetings involving landlords, tenants, and pets can help set clear expectations before the tenancy begins.

To protect all parties, the guide stresses the importance of thorough inventories and regular inspections, with clear documentation of the property’s condition. This approach helps prevent disputes over damage and supports evidence-based resolution if disagreements arise.

Context: evolving tenant rights and pet ownership trends

The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act and similar legislation across the UK reflects growing recognition of pet ownership as a key consideration for tenants. Increasing numbers of renters view pet-friendly properties as essential, influencing their housing choices and tenancy duration.

Research cited by Propertymark indicates that pet-related damage is often less than half that caused by non-pet-related issues, and tenants with pets tend to stay longer in rented homes. This challenges common landlord concerns about allowing pets and suggests potential financial benefits from supporting responsible pet ownership.

These developments come amid broader rental sector reforms aimed at improving tenant protections and fostering more sustainable tenancies, with pet ownership now firmly part of the conversation.

Implications for landlords and agents managing pet requests

For landlords, the guide signals a need to review existing tenancy agreements and policies to ensure compliance with new legal obligations regarding pets. Blanket no-pet policies are increasingly untenable under the new laws, requiring more nuanced and case-by-case consideration.

Letting agents must update their procedures to handle pet requests within statutory timeframes and maintain clear communication channels among landlords and tenants. They should also be prepared to advise landlords on assessing property suitability and managing risk through documentation and inspections.

Agents and landlords should monitor ongoing regulatory updates, as the legal landscape around pets in rented accommodation continues to evolve, with possible further amendments or guidance expected.

What landlords and agents should consider now

• Review tenancy agreements and landlord policies to align with the Renters’ Rights Act and related legislation.
• Establish clear processes for receiving and responding to pet requests within the required timeframe.
• Assess properties for suitability regarding pet ownership, including any lease restrictions or insurance considerations.
• Encourage tenants to provide supporting documentation about their pets to aid decision-making.
• Maintain detailed inventories and conduct regular inspections to document property condition and mitigate disputes.
• Stay informed about regional legal differences across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
• Facilitate open communication between landlords, tenants, and agents to set expectations and support longer tenancies.

Supporting landlords and agents with compliance and management

The Landlord Association (TLA) membership offers practical compliance resources and support tailored to the evolving requirements around pet ownership in rented properties. Members can access up-to-date guidance on tenancy law changes, including the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, and practical tools for managing pet requests and related documentation.

TLA’s new property management platform, ORBIT, currently in BETA testing, is designed to help landlords and letting agents organise portfolios, manage rental documents, and keep detailed records of inspections, communications, and compliance actions. This can be particularly useful for tracking pet-related tenancy arrangements and maintaining evidence to resolve disputes.

By exploring TLA membership and ORBIT BETA access, landlords and agents can better prepare for ongoing regulatory developments and ensure they handle pet tenancy matters with confidence and clarity.

Looking ahead, landlords and letting agents should expect continued focus on tenant rights and responsible pet ownership within the private rented sector. Proactive engagement with these issues will be essential to maintaining compliant, attractive, and sustainable rental portfolios.

Sources: Letting Agent Today