The Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes for landlords across England – and one of the most talked-about updates involves pets in rental properties.
For landlords in the largely rural or semi-rural South Cotswolds, this change is especially relevant. After all, pets are often an important part of home life in countryside communities.
So, what happens if your tenants ask to keep a pet? What are your rights to refuse consent? What is the process that needs to be followed under the law changes?
In this post we break it down clearly and positively – because with the right approach, this change doesn’t have to be a concern. In fact, for many South Cotswolds landlords, it can present an opportunity.
What is the changing under the Renters’ Rights Act?
Under the proposed legislation introduced by the Act, tenants will have the legal right to request permission to keep a pet in their rented home.
As a result, blanket “no pets” policies will become far more difficult for landlords to enforce.
However, tenants must follow the formal, statutory process set out in Section 11 of the Act, and landlords can still refuse consent if they have a valid reason.
The process can be summarised as follows:
- Tenants must make a formal written request to the landlord (or managing agent), including a description of the pet.
- Landlords must give or refuse consent in writing within 28 days of the request.
- Landlords may request further information if it’s reasonable to do so. If the tenant fails to provide that information, the landlord is not obliged to give or refuse consent.
Therefore, while the legislation strengthens tenants’ rights, it also provides a clear framework for landlords.
Can landlords still refuse pets?
Yes – but the onus is on the landlord to demonstrate that any refusal is reasonable. Each request must be considered on its own merits and on a case-by-case basis.
For example, refusal may be reasonable if:
- The property is too small for the specific animal (such as a large dog in a studio flat with no garden.
- There are legitimate concerns about the welfare of the pet – such as a dog who will be left at home all day whilst the tenants are at work, or a home located close to a busy main road where the pet cannot be kept secure.
- The building’s superior lease prohibits pets.
- There are genuine health and safety concerns.
- The type or number of pets requested is excessive (for instance, multiple cats in a small flat).
In the South Cotswolds, many rental homes include gardens or countryside access. Consequently, pet requests are more common – particularly for dogs. However, the same legal principles apply regardless of location.
Crucially, simply preferring not to allow pets will not be sufficient grounds for refusal under the new framework.
For this reason, professional guidance is more important than ever.
What can tenants do if they believe consent was unreasonably refused?
Under the Act, tenants will be able to challenge a refusal by:
- Raising a complaint with the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman; or
- Applying to the court for a decision.
The Ombudsman or judge will then review the evidence and determine whether the landlord acted reasonably.
This makes it essential that landlords document their decision-making process carefully and respond within the required timeframe.
Why this change isn’t necessarily a negative
At first glance, the reforms on pets may feel restrictive. However, there are clear advantages – particularly in predominantly rural areas like ours.
Demand for pet-friendly rental properties in the South Cotswolds continues to grow. Many tenants relocating to villages and countryside settings do so specifically for lifestyle reasons – and that often includes bringing a dog or other pet.
By allowing pets with sensible safeguards in place, landlords can:
- Increase the pool of potential tenants
- Reduce void periods
- Encourage longer-term tenancies
- Attract responsible tenants who view the property as a long-term home
In fact, tenants with pets often stay longer because suitable accommodation is harder to find. As a result, stability can improve.
With the right management structure, this shift can support both compliance and profitability.
How we support landlords in the South Cotswolds
Legislative change can feel overwhelming. However, you don’t need to navigate the Renters’ Rights Act alone.
As experienced letting agents in the South Cotswolds, we understand the local rural rental market – from town flats and terraces to village cottages to larger country homes – and the realities of pet ownership in these settings.
As the new rules take effect from 1st May, we will actively support landlords by:
- Reviewing tenancy agreements to ensure full compliance
- Managing and documenting pet requests correctly
- Advising on what constitutes a reasonable refusal
- Helping you develop a clear and practical pet policy
- Conducting detailed inventories and regular property inspections
- Keeping you informed with ongoing legislative updates
Most importantly, we take a balanced and proactive approach. We protect your investment while maintaining positive tenant relationships – which is essential in close-knit South Cotswolds communities.
Final thoughts: a managed approach creates confidence
Change often brings uncertainty. However, the key message is this: you still retain control – it simply needs to be exercised reasonably, transparently and in line with the legislation.
With clear systems, thorough documentation and professional guidance, allowing pets does not have to mean increased risk.
On the contrary, when handled correctly, it can strengthen tenant demand, reduce voids and support long-term stability – particularly in rural areas where pets are part of everyday life.
If you would like to review your rent levels or discuss how the Renters’ Rights Act changes will affect your property, we would be delighted to talk you through the process.
Our Guide for Landlords provides more information on the Renters’ Rights Act and the support we provide to help our landlords remain fully compliant.
More detailed information is also available in the Government’s Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act.
Other posts on the Act that you might find of interest:
-
How do I get possession of my rental property under the Renters’ Rights Act?
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How are Tenancy Agreements changing under the Renters’ Rights Act?
- How will rent increases be managed under the Renters’ Rights Act?
