Respond to a pet request in England

Obtain enough information for a decision

For an in-scope assured periodic tenancy, handle a written pet request under the current English rules and response timetable.

• Ask what animal is proposed, relevant size or number, the accommodation and any practical management arrangements.
• Check property-specific constraints, including a superior lease, shared areas and suitability. Do not substitute a blanket no-pets policy for considering the request.
• Identify assistance-animal or disability issues separately and assess applicable equality duties.

Give a reasoned response

Keep the request, any further information and the decision together.

• Use the current statutory timescale and any permitted extension correctly. Record the dates rather than leaving the request unanswered.
• Explain a refusal with relevant reasons and evidence. Where a superior landlord's consent is needed, follow the required process rather than assuming refusal.
• If consenting, set clear lawful arrangements about care, nuisance and damage. Check permitted-payment rules before asking for money.

Manage problems on their facts

Permission for an animal does not remove ordinary responsibilities, but a complaint needs evidence.

• Investigate a noise, damage or safety report and give the tenant a reasonable opportunity to respond.
• Record the actual condition and loss if a deduction is later proposed. Do not assume every mark in a pet-owning household was caused by the animal.
• Review any change in circumstances through the proper process. Do not remove the animal or enter the home without lawful authority.

Related guides

• Complete right to rent checks in England
• Advertise rent clearly and assess applicants fairly
• Assess affordability without a blanket applicant ban
• Check an application document that may be false
• Reference an applicant who has no payslips
• Assess an applicant with overseas income or references