By The Posh Group Real Estates | Luxury Property Advisory
Can Landlords Refuse Tenants with Pets in 2026?
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces stronger tenant rights regarding pets significantly changing how landlords must approach requests.
1. The New Legal Position
From 2026:
- Tenants can request permission to keep a pet
- Landlords must consider requests reasonably
- Blanket bans are no longer appropriate
2. What “Reasonable Refusal” Means
Refusal may be justified where:
- Lease restrictions prohibit pets
- Property is unsuitable (e.g. size, layout)
- Health or safety concerns exist
👉 The key is that refusal must be defensible
3. Step-by-Step: Handling Pet Requests
Step 1. Receive request
Step 2. Assess property suitability
Step 3. Review lease restrictions
Step 4. Document decision
Step 5. Respond within reasonable timeframe
4. Common Mistakes
❌ Automatic refusal
❌ No reasoning provided
❌ No documentation
❌ Blanket policies
5. Strategic Consideration
Allowing pets can:
- Increase tenant demand
- Improve retention
- Reduce void periods
👉 This is not just compliance — it can be an advantage