A joint statement from Mars Petcare and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has welcomed the Renters’ Rights Bill as having a “transformative impact on the lives of tenants wishing to rent with pets.”

Following the Bill’s final stages in the House of Lords, it is now expected to receive Royal Assent within days, bringing significant changes for renters and landlords alike.

A Win for Pet-Friendly Renting

Research by YouGov shows that 40% of renters have been unable to keep a pet due to housing restrictions, while 19% of those refused permission said they had been forced to give up an existing animal. With 70% of pet owners citing mental health and wellbeing as their primary reason for ownership, campaigners say the new law will allow millions more renters to enjoy the benefits of animal companionship without fear of eviction or refusal.

Mars and Battersea have campaigned for over three years alongside Lord Black of Brentwood, who led the push in the House of Lords.

A Mars spokesperson said: “The Government’s decision to remove unnecessary barriers to pet ownership recognises just how much it means to people and families across the country. We’re delighted that this will open the door for more renters than ever to experience the happiness and wellbeing benefits that come with being a pet parent.”

Lord Guy Black added: “This legislation marks the start of a long-overdue culture shift. The huge benefits of pet ownership should not be limited to those who own their homes. I hope the days of renters being forced to choose between their home and their pet are now behind us.”

Battersea’s Chief Executive, Peter Laurie, echoed this optimism:  “For years, Battersea has witnessed families forced to part with their beloved pets because of restrictive housing policies. The Renters’ Rights Bill will finally break that cycle and ensure millions can enjoy the companionship pets bring.”

With almost 45% of private renters saying they would now consider getting a new or additional pet, charities also expect a rise in adoption rates.

Landlord Concerns Remain

However, David Smith, partner at Spector Constant & Williams and a leading housing law expert, warns that the decision to reject a separate pet damage deposit leaves landlords exposed.  “While making renting more pet-friendly is understandable, removing both the dedicated insurance requirement and the option of an additional deposit leaves landlords vulnerable to potential losses,” he said.

“A modest, refundable pet deposit would have provided a fair balance between encouraging responsible pet ownership and protecting landlords. As it stands, clear tenancy clauses and strong referencing will be essential to manage the additional risk.”

In Summary

• Tenants gain stronger rights to keep pets with landlords required to consider requests reasonably.
• Landlords remain bound by the existing five-week deposit cap, with no dedicated allowance for pet-related damage.
• The change is expected to increase pet ownership and adoption across the private rented sector.