Looking for a rental with a dog or cat in the UK? You’re not alone. As a UK pets & property expert, I can tell you it’s tricky — and despite the much-talked-about Renters Rights Bill , it will continue to be. I won’t go into all the policy gaps here, but what’s clear is that the UK Government still doesn’t fully “get” pets when it comes to housing.
I’ve spent nearly 30 years in the property sector — as an estate agent, search agent, and now founder of Pets Lets https://www.petslets.com. This blog is about what to expect when dealing with UK estate agents and landlords if you’re trying to rent with pets.
Pets may be family to us, but in property circles they’re often still seen as a “problem.” Many agents and landlords hold onto the myth that pets automatically mean damage.
I run the Relocating to the UK with Pets Facebook Group. So many members, particularly from overseas, complain about the same issue: they enquire about a rental through a portal such as Rightmove , hear nothing back, then check later only to see the property marked as let.
Sadly, many agents are reactive, not proactive. They’re used to emails and portal enquiries landing in their inbox. Picking up the phone to arrange viewings? Many simply don’t bother.
I’ve even had agents tell me directly: “We’ve already got 10 viewings booked, none of them have pets. I wouldn’t waste your time.”
Most people assume it’s just landlords saying no to pets. But estate agents often add another barrier. Here’s why:
– Not asking the pet question: Many agents don’t ask landlords up front if pets are allowed. They’re focused on winning the instruction, not rocking the boat.
– No data on portals: Because the question wasn’t asked, the property can’t be listed as “pet-friendly” on portals.
– Commission culture: Many agents are on low base salaries, earning commission only if they close a deal. A “tricky” tenant with pets is a risk — they might lose out to a colleague with an “easier” applicant.
– Landlord first, tenant second: Agents represent landlords, not tenants. Keeping the landlord happy secures repeat business, so pushing for a tenant with pets isn’t always in their interest.
That said, finding that golden nugget of an agent who loves pets, maybe even has a dog or cat themselves, can make all the difference.
This NoAH article may be dated, but the reasons landlords are cautious haven’t changed:
– Scratches on wooden floors
– Fur on carpets
– Noise complaints
– Neighbour disputes
Some landlords have had bad experiences and stick to a blanket “no pets” rule. And if the head lease says no pets, that’s legally binding, no matter what an agent says. Always insist on a pets clause in your tenancy agreement. Without one, you could one day be told your pet isn’t allowed and have no legal recourse.
The numbers tell the story:
– 60% of UK households own a pet
– Only 7–10% of landlords advertise as pet-friendly
Private landlords may be cautious, but corporate landlords are moving in. Build-to-rent operators are seizing the opportunity, welcoming pets, often with a price tag. Pet rent typically ranges from £40–£70 per pet per month. Add up two or three pets, and that’s a significant addition to your monthly outgoings.
Estate agents and landlords in the UK remain cautious about tenants with pets, even though pet ownership is mainstream. Until attitudes and legislation fully catch up, tenants with dogs or cats will need to go the extra mile: proving financial stability and showing they are responsible pet owners.
The Renters Rights Bill won’t make this easier. With the abolition of Section 21 looming, landlords are already more sensitive about tenant selection. Many will simply avoid what they see as added risk.
On the brighter side, things are slowly improving. But agents need to be more proactive. Too often pets are seen as “tricky,” when all it takes is one quick call or email to a landlord. Otherwise, they risk losing out on both the tenant and the fee.
A little extra effort could unlock a much bigger and growing market of tenants with pets.
Russell Hunt is a leading UK pets and property expert, and founder of Pets Lets, specialising in helping people rent and buy homes in London and across the UK with their cats and dogs. He also founded the Relocating to the UK with Pets Facebook Group, where he offers advice to pet owners. For a no-obligation chat, you can book a call here.
