Tenants’ Rights to Request a Pet: What Bournemouth Landlords Need to Know

One area of the Renters’ Rights Act bringing that is raising many eyebrows amongst landlords is pet requests. If you’re letting a property in Bournemouth, you’ll want to understand exactly what’s changing — and what remains firmly within your control.

Landlords Cannot “Unreasonably Refuse” Pets

From May 1st 2026 tenants now have the right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords must not unreasonably refuse that request.

Naturally, this has triggered concern for many landlords — pets have always been one of the most debated topics in the private rented sector.

But here’s the key point: “Unreasonable” does not mean “automatic approval.”
The law will expect landlords to assess each request on a case-by-case basis, and there will be several scenarios where a refusal will be perfectly justified.

When Can Landlords Refuse a Pet

Based on the government’s guidance and the wording of the Act, these are the clearest examples of reasonable grounds to decline a pet:

1. Your Lease Forbids Pets

If you let out a flat with a superior lease that prohibits animals, that restriction still stands. The law explicitly allows landlords to refuse in this situation, because you legally cannot give permission where the superior landlord does not.

This is one of the strongest, clearest grounds for refusal.

2. The Property Simply Isn’t Suitable

Size and practicality matter. For example:

A large dog in a small studio flat

Multiple pets in a property without outdoor access

Situations where the pet would likely cause damage due to the layout or size of the home

These are all considered reasonable factors to decline a request.

3. Where Additional Permissions Are Required

If you need consent from a superior landlord, you can delay your final decision until:

You have applied for consent within 28 days

The superior landlord has replied

Once you receive their decision, you have 7 days to confirm your answer to the tenant.

How do I request a pet from my landlord?

Once the Renters Rights Act becomes law on May 1st 2026 there will be a structured process that both parties must follow:

1. Tenant Makes a Written Request to their landlord or managing agent describing the pet and request consent in writing.

2. The Landlord or managing agent must responds within 28 Days

   They must give written consent or refusal within 28 days. If more information is needed about the pet, the landlord / managing agent can request it — and they will then have an additional 7 days from receiving the extra details to give their decision.

What This Means for Bournemouth Landlords

As a Bournemouth letting agent, we’re already helping landlords prepare for this change — and honestly, while the headlines look dramatic, the practical reality is more balanced.

Pets will increase the risk of damage to a property, but this is a risk that can be successfully managed with a letting agent, by assessing the suitability of the pet for the property, giving permission for one particular named pet and not all pets, and having an adequate Pet Policy in place.

Final Thoughts

Letting a property in Bournemouth is evolving, and pets are becoming part of that picture. The Renters’ Rights Act aims to strike a balance: giving tenants more flexibility while still allowing landlords to make sensible decisions based on the property, the lease, and the nature of the pet.

If you’re unsure how to handle a pet request, need help reviewing your tenancy agreements, or want a Bournemouth letting agent who’ll keep you ahead of the legislative curve — we’re here

Please call us on 01202 554470 for more information