An assured shorthold tenancy agreement that allows pets in line with the Renters' Rights Act 2025. The RRA introduced a new statutory pet request process — landlords cannot unreasonably refuse pets. This template incorporates that framework.
The new statutory pet request process
Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, a tenant can make a written request to keep a pet, and the landlord must respond within a specified period. The landlord can only refuse on reasonable grounds — for example, if the property is genuinely unsuitable, or the pet would breach a head-lease.
The landlord can require the tenant to take out pet damage insurance, which covers damage caused by the pet beyond fair wear and tear.
What's included in this template
- The base tenancy agreement.
- A pet schedule recording the specific pet(s) consented to.
- The statutory pet consent procedure built into the document.
- Provisions for pet damage insurance.
- Pet-specific tenant obligations (cleaning, vet records, no breeding without consent).
When you can reasonably refuse
The RRA framework prevents blanket "no pets" clauses, but you can still refuse on reasonable grounds. Examples that have been considered reasonable in early case law:
- Head-lease prohibition (if you are leasing the property yourself).
- Property genuinely unsuitable (no garden, top-floor flat for large dogs).
- Specific allergic conditions of neighbours sharing the building.
- Number, size, or species causing genuine concern.
What you still need to do
Standard tenancy obligations apply: Information Sheet, How to Rent guide, EPC, Gas Safety, EICR, deposit protection, and right-to-rent checks. Plus you must respond formally to any pet request within the statutory period.