One of the biggest misconceptions in today’s rental market is that landlords simply decide whether they “like pets” or not. The reality is very different.

After helping hundreds of pet owners secure rental properties across the UK, we’ve found that most landlords aren’t judging your pet first, they’re judging the overall level of risk.

The good news is that much of that is within your control.

Is the property suitable?

This is usually the first question.

A house cat in a one-bedroom flat is viewed very differently from three large dogs in the same property.

Landlords will naturally consider:

The size of your pet
The number of pets
The type of property
Whether there’s outdoor space nearby
The likely impact on neighbours

A well-matched property gives landlords far more confidence. So when looking for a property on the portals, such as Rightmove and Open Rent

Can you demonstrate you’re a responsible owner?

Responsible pet owners stand out.

Providing supporting information such as a Pet CV, veterinary records, training certificates and previous landlord references shows you’ve thought things through. It tells the landlord you’re organised rather than making an impulsive request.

If you work from home a lot, say so, your pets are not left alone. If your pets are elderly, say so, they sleep a lot, what damage can they do.

Will the property be looked after?

Damage is one of the biggest concerns landlords have. Showing how you intend to minimise wear and tear, keep the property clean and deal with any issues quickly can make a real difference.

Many landlords simply want reassurance.

Are you a strong tenant overall?

Your pet is only one part of the application.

Landlords also consider:

Employment
Affordability
Credit history
References
Length of tenancy
Stability

A strong tenant with a well-presented pet application is often viewed far more favourably than someone who focuses only on asking for permission.

Have you made the landlord’s decision easy?

This is something many applicants overlook. A landlord doesn’t want to spend hours asking questions. Answer them before they’re asked.

Explain where your pet sleeps, how often it’s left alone, your walking routine, grooming arrangements and anything else that demonstrates responsible ownership.

The fewer unanswered questions, the easier it is for a landlord to say yes to you pets.

What about the Renters’ Rights Act?

The Renters’ Rights Act gives tenants greater rights to request a pet during a tenancy, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse those requests.

However, if you’re applying for a new property, competition remains fierce. Landlords still choose between multiple applicants, so presenting yourself professionally is more important than ever.

Simply having the legal right to ask doesn’t guarantee you’ll be the selected tenant.

Final thoughts

Landlords don’t just look at your pet. They look at the complete picture. If an agent is involved, they will have their top few tenants they recommend. Get on that short list!

A well-prepared application, realistic expectations and clear evidence that you’re a responsible pet owner can significantly improve your chances of securing a pet-friendly rental.

At Pets Lets, we help clients present the strongest possible application. From creating professional Pet CVs to negotiating directly with landlords and agents, because securing a home with a pet is about much more than simply finding a property.

Call to Action

If you’re navigating the UK rental market with a pet—or thinking about it—take a look at:

👉 https://www.sayyestopets.co.uk/

Get the right advice early, and you’ll put yourself in a completely different position when it matters most.

About the Author – Russell Hunt

Pets Lets Expert Insight

This article was written by Russell Hunt, co-founder of Pets Lets, a specialist service helping tenants secure pet-friendly property to rent in London and across the UK.

With more than 30 years of experience in the London property market, Russell works with tenants, landlords and estate agents to make renting with pets possible in practice, not just in theory. His work focuses on helping pet owners present strong applications, prepare properly for competitive markets, and navigate landlord concerns around pets.

Through Pets Lets, Russell supports UK tenants with pets as well as educates landlords with UK properties on the benefits of dog friendly rentals and cat friendly rentals in London and across the UK.

Russell also runs the community “Relocating to the UK with Pets”, helping thousands of members understand the realities of travelling to the UK with pets.

Learn more about pet-friendly renting advice and services at Pets Lets

For further guidance on renting with pets, visit Dogs Trust’s Lets with Pets