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Step 13 · During the tenancy

Pet requests

Reply in writing within 28 days; don't refuse unreasonably.

Legal requirement Changed 1 May 2026 Within 28 days of a request

What you need to know

Tenants can ask in writing to keep a pet. Consider each request and reply in writing within 28 days.
You can't refuse unreasonably — record your reasons (for example a head lease that bans pets).

Recent law changes

1 May 2026: Renters' Rights Act in force (England). Section 21 abolished; tenancies became periodic; rent increases by section 13 only; rental bidding, "No DSS" and "No children" banned; rent in advance limited; new pet request rules.

Documents for this step

We prepare it · free account Reply to a pet request Within 28 days of the request.

Source: GOV.UK: Guide to the Renters' Rights Act. Checked 31 Oct 2026. General information, not legal advice.