The Renters’ Rights Act promised better protection for tenants with pets. So why are so many people still struggling to find a pet-friendly rental in London?
Since the new legislation came into force in England on 1 May 2026, there has been plenty of confusion about what it actually means for people renting with dogs and cats.
At Pets Lets, we work with tenants relocating to London and across the UK, many bringing their pets from overseas. And one thing is clear: the new laws haven’t suddenly made finding a pet-friendly home straightforward.
In fact, securing the right property can still be extremely competitive.
The Renters’ Rights Act Doesn’t Mean Every Landlord Must Accept Pets
This is probably the biggest misunderstanding surrounding the new legislation.
Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, private tenants in England have the right to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse that request and must normally respond in writing within 28 days.
However, there is an important distinction between someone already renting a property and someone applying for a new tenancy.
The formal pet-request procedure does not apply before a tenancy begins.
Landlords can still choose between prospective tenants, taking into account their overall applications. This means someone with a dog or cat may still lose out to another applicant, even where the property itself could accommodate a pet.
The legislation has improved tenants’ rights, but it hasn’t created an automatic right to secure a rental property with pets.
Why Are London Landlords Still Saying No to Pets?
There are several reasons why renting with pets in London remains challenging.
- Competition for rental properties
In popular London neighbourhoods, desirable properties can attract considerable interest.
Landlords may have several suitable applicants, some with pets and others without. Even where a pet would be perfectly manageable, an applicant without one may be perceived as the simpler option.
In the current market, rule of thumb, you may lose out on few properties before agreeing one. It really depends on the competition.
What I would say, don’t think there is something wrong with you. Its just the market with or without pets.
Of course, that doesn’t necessarily make them the better tenant!
- Leasehold restrictions and building policies
Many London flats are leasehold properties, meaning the landlord may be subject to restrictions imposed by a superior landlord or building management arrangements.
Some buildings prohibit pets or require additional consent.
The Renters’ Rights Act does not automatically override these restrictions, and they can provide valid grounds for refusing permission.
- Concerns about property damage
Some landlords remain concerned about damage, noise or potential complaints from neighbours.
This is where presenting your pet properly can make a difference.
A well-prepared Pet CV, references and information about your pet’s behaviour can help reassure a landlord who might otherwise hesitate.
- Affordability and referencing
It’s not always the pet that’s the problem.
We regularly work with overseas tenants, students and self-employed applicants who face additional referencing challenges.
A landlord may prefer an applicant with straightforward UK employment and credit history over someone whose financial circumstances require more explanation.
Having a pet can add another consideration to an already competitive application.
Are Dogs Harder to Rent With Than Cats?
Not necessarily, although the type, size and number of pets can influence a landlord’s decision.
Some landlords are comfortable accepting an indoor cat but less enthusiastic about a large dog. Others worry about scratching, noise or damage regardless of the animal.
We’ve helped clients relocate with everything from house cats to multiple large dogs.
The important thing is finding a property and landlord genuinely suited to your circumstances, rather than assuming every advertised property will be an option.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Securing a Pet-Friendly Rental?
Preparation is essential, particularly in London’s fast-moving rental market.
Here are five things we recommend:
- Prepare a Pet CV. Include your pet’s details, photographs, behaviour and any relevant references.
- Have your paperwork ready. Employment information, income evidence, savings and referencing documents should be organised before you start viewing.
- Be realistic about your search. Location, budget, property type and the number of pets all influence your options.
- Be upfront about your pets. Don’t wait until the final stages of an application to mention them.
- Move quickly. Suitable properties can attract offers very quickly, so delays can mean missing out.
Importantly, don’t limit your search to properties specifically advertised as pet-friendly. Some landlords may consider pets when approached with a strong application.
How Pets Lets Helps Tenants Secure Pet-Friendly Homes
Finding a pet-friendly rental isn’t simply about spotting the right property on Rightmove.
It’s about knowing which properties are genuinely suitable, approaching agents and landlords effectively, preparing a strong application and managing the process through to securing the tenancy.
At Pets Lets, our E-Broker Service provides dedicated support throughout that process.
With over 30 years of UK property experience behind our approach, we help clients navigate the rental market, including those relocating from overseas with dogs and cats.
We also regularly approach agents and landlords directly, sometimes identifying suitable properties before they reach the main property portals.
Our focus isn’t just finding somewhere that might accept your pet. It’s helping you secure a home that works for everyone.
Is Renting With Pets in London Getting Easier?
The new legislation is a positive step towards recognising that pets are part of the family.
But legislation alone doesn’t remove competition, building restrictions or the practical challenges of securing a tenancy.
For people searching for pet-friendly rentals in London in 2026, the reality remains that preparation, flexibility and understanding how the market works can make all the difference.
And that’s where having an experienced property professional in your corner can help.
Looking for a pet-friendly rental in London or elsewhere in the UK?
Discover how our Pets Lets E-Broker Service can help you find and secure your next home with your dog or cat.
Further reading: Shelter England – Renting with pets: the rules and what’s changing
This article relates to private renting in England. Rental legislation differs in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Publishing recommendations
Internal links: I’d add three links within the article: your E-Broker Service page, your Pet CV creator and a relevant client success story from Pets Lets Success Stories.
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
