Renting with Pets for Support
Your Rights and Responsibilities When Renting with Support Pets
renting with pets
Pets often feel like family members — but if you’re in a rented property, welcoming a support pet under your roof takes a bit of extra homework. From what your tenancy contract allows to how your landlord views support pets, it pays to be informed. Below is a refreshed guide to help you navigate UK rental rules where support pets are concerned.
A. Review Your Tenancy Agreement
Your written tenancy agreement is the rulebook. Although many Assured Shorthold Tenancies still include blanket “no pets” clauses, the government’s updated 2021 Model Tenancy Agreement encourages a more pet‑friendly approach:
Landlords should not unreasonably withhold permission for tenants to keep a pet.
They have 28 days to reply in writing to a pet‐permission request and must explain any refusal.
Bear in mind, however, that landlords aren’t legally compelled to adopt this model—so always check exactly what your own lease says before bringing in a support pet.
B. Getting Formal Permission for a Pet
Even if your contract doesn’t explicitly ban pets, you must still ask your landlord’s consent in writing. Landlords commonly cite concerns about:
Property condition (e.g. wear and tear)
Insurance policy restrictions
Noise or hygiene issues
Some may agree to pets under conditions such as paying for a professional end‐of‐tenancy clean or increasing a refundable deposit (within the legal cap set by the Tenant Fees Act 2019). If you can offer evidence of good pet care (vet records, training certificates) and agree to sensible ground rules, you’re more likely to strike a deal.
C. How to Ask for Support Pet Consideration
Support pets currently lack the formal legal status of assistance dogs in the UK, but many landlords will consider reasonable requests if you present them properly:
Raise the issue early—ideally before you sign or renew your lease.
Explain your need clearly: Support pets aid mental or emotional wellbeing, not simply a hobby.
Provide reassurance about noise, cleanliness and liability.
Share details of your support pet:
Species and breed (e.g. “small, low‑shedding dog”)
Age and temperament (e.g. “five years old, house‑trained and calm”)
Any formal training or vet checks
What is an Support Pet Letter
An support pet letter is a formal document written by a registered healthcare professional confirming that an individual has a health condition and that a support pet could aid their wellbeing. This letter can support a request for reasonable accommodations.
Who can benefit?
Our support pet letters may be suitable for:
Individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or stress-related conditions
People struggling with social isolation
Students or professionals facing pressure and burnout
Registering your existing pet as a support pet
