Looking for a place to rent when you’ve got a furry friend in tow isn’t always straightforward. While pet ownership is booming across the UK, actually finding a home where pets are welcome can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
But don’t worry—if you know where to look and how to prepare, landing a pet-friendly rental doesn’t have to be a struggle. Here’s what you need to know to improve your chances and find a home that suits both you and your pet.
Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Are Still Hard to Find
Despite the fact that more than half of UK households now own pets (according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association), many landlords still hesitate to allow them. The reasons vary—some worry about potential damage, others about noise or neighbour complaints.
But here’s the good news: attitudes are slowly changing. In fact, the government updated its Model Tenancy Agreement in 2021 to make it harder for landlords to impose blanket pet bans. While it’s not legally binding, it’s a step in the right direction—and something you can definitely bring up in conversations with prospective landlords.
1. Start Looking Earlier Than You Think You Need To
Properties that allow pets tend to get snapped up quickly, especially in cities or popular commuter towns. Starting your search early gives you time to explore more options and approach landlords with confidence.
Quick Tips:
- Begin searching at least two months before your moving date
- Use filters like “pets allowed” on sites like Rightmove or Zoopla
- Consider reaching out directly to local letting agents and explain your situation
If you spot something promising, move fast—it might not be around for long.
2. Know What Rights You Actually Have
A lot of renters assume landlords can say “no pets” and that’s the end of the discussion. But under the UK government’s updated Model Tenancy Agreement, landlords are encouraged not to refuse pets without a valid reason.
That doesn’t mean every landlord is obliged to accept your dog or cat, but it does mean they have to consider it fairly. For example, they might request details about the pet or ask for additional terms (like insurance or a deep-clean commitment) instead of saying no outright.
💡 If you’re renting in Scotland or Northern Ireland, tenancy laws can differ slightly—so always check your local guidance.
3. Create a ‘Pet CV’ to Impress Landlords
It might sound silly at first, but putting together a short profile about your pet can go a long way. Think of it like a mini résumé—it shows the landlord that your pet is well-behaved, cared for, and not likely to wreck their property.
What to include:
- Breed, age, and temperament
- Vaccination and neutering records
- Previous rental references (if available)
- Behaviour or training certificates
Example snippet: “Milo is a 4-year-old house-trained French Bulldog. He’s quiet, doesn’t chew furniture, and is fully vaccinated. We’ve never had any issues in previous rentals, and we’re happy to provide references.”
This kind of information can really help ease any landlord concerns.
4. Consider Offering a Bit More (Without Breaking the Rules)
Because of the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords in England and Wales can no longer charge extra deposits above five weeks’ rent. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do.
Instead, you might:
- Offer to pay for pet damage insurance
- Suggest a professional clean at the end of the tenancy
- Show receipts from previous tenancies where there was no damage
It’s all about building trust. If the landlord sees that you’re willing to go the extra mile, they may be more inclined to say yes.
5. Private Landlords May Be More Flexible
While large property management firms often have strict rules, individual landlords may be more open to negotiations—especially if they like you and your pet.
When dealing with a private landlord:
- Be upfront about your pet from the get-go
- Highlight your reliability as a tenant
- Offer to introduce your pet (if practical)
True Story: A friend of mine in Birmingham managed to get a flat for her and her cat, Luna, simply by offering to meet the landlord beforehand and show photos of the cat lounging peacefully at their old flat. It worked!
6. Read the Tenancy Agreement—Twice
It might sound obvious, but don’t assume verbal permission is enough. Always get written confirmation that your pet is allowed. Look through the agreement to make sure:
- Your pet is specifically permitted
- There are no unexpected restrictions (like size or breed)
- You understand who’s responsible for damage, cleaning, etc.
If you’re unsure, ask for a clause to be added that clearly spells it out. It could save a lot of hassle down the line.
My Take on the Matter
As someone who’s helped both tenants and landlords navigate rental agreements, I truly believe this: most landlords aren’t against pets—they’re just cautious. It’s all about presentation. If you show you’re a responsible pet owner with references, clear communication, and a plan for managing your pet, you’ve already won half the battle.
And honestly? The effort is worth it. Pets are part of the family. You deserve a home where they’re welcome too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes—but if you’re in England, the Model Tenancy Agreement recommends that landlords shouldn’t unreasonably withhold consent. They can still impose fair conditions.
This can lead to a breach of contract, and in some cases, eviction. Always get written approval before moving in with a pet.
Smaller, quieter, and house-trained pets usually have better chances. Dogs and cats are common, but exotic animals or high-energy breeds may raise red flags.
Final Thoughts
Finding pet-friendly rentals in the UK can feel like a bit of a maze, but with the right approach, it’s far from impossible. Be proactive, transparent, and prepared. And remember—your future landlord wants a good tenant just as much as you want a welcoming home.