The government has urged social landlords to take a fair and consistent approach to tenants’ pet requests, setting out the standards it expects across the rental market as new pet rights for private renters move closer to implementation.

In a letter to social housing providers, housing minister Baroness Taylor stressed that pet requests should be “considered fairly” and that tenants should be allowed to keep animals “where appropriate.”

From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act will prevent private landlords from unreasonably refusing a tenant’s request to keep a pet, while also giving renters stronger routes to challenge decisions.

Although ministers opted not to legislate on pets in social housing—arguing that social tenants “do not generally experience the same barriers to keeping a pet”—

Baroness Taylor made clear she expects alignment across the sector, signalling that social landlords should mirror the spirit of the new private-rented rules “I recognise, though, that it is important there is clarity, fairness and consistency across the private and social rented sectors,” she stated in the government letter.

The letter sets out what ministers view as best practice for handling pet requests guidance private landlords should pay close attention to as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force.

Key expectations include having clear, accessible pet policies built into tenancy documents and being upfront with tenants about the criteria used when assessing requests. Where a request is declined, landlords are advised to provide a written explanation and point tenants towards any review or complaints routes.

For landlords still preparing for the RRA changes, putting a robust written pet policy in place should now be a priority. The Act does not require landlords to approve every request, but refusals must be reasonable, evidence-based and properly documented — making clear processes essential.

Baroness Taylor commended landlords who already build pet-care and behaviour requirements into their policies, saying these examples demonstrate how providers can support responsible ownership while still maintaining good property standards and community stability.

She also described pets as “an issue close to my heart” and confirmed that the government will soon launch a consultation on a new proposed tenure direction for the Regulator of Social Housing. 

Additional guidance for social landlords is expected ahead of the RRA rules applying to the sector in 2027.

For private landlords, the implication is straightforward: having a clear, well-reasoned and transparent pet policy in place before May will be crucial. A documented approach not only reduces the risk of disputes but also helps show that decisions meet the Act’s requirements.