Pets by Consent: Why this is the best option

From 1 December 2025, the rules around pets in rental properties changed significantly. Landlords must now consider pet requests, respond within 21 days, and can only decline on reasonable grounds. Tenants remain fully liable for any damage resulting from keeping a pet, and landlords can charge a pet bond of up to two weeks' rent.

Because of this shift, “Pets by Consent” will, in most cases, be the option used when advertising rental properties where a pet setting is available.

This approach reflects the reality of the law. A blanket “no pets” position is no longer practical.

Pets by consent strikes the right balance between tenant demand and landlord protection.

It signals openness to tenants, avoids unnecessary disputes, and preserves the landlord’s right to make an informed decision based on the property, the type of pet, and the circumstances. It also aligns with the legal requirement to consider requests properly, rather than shutting the door at the advertising stage.

In short, pets by consent is not about saying yes to every pet. It is about keeping control, staying compliant, and setting clear expectations from day one.

That is why, moving forward, this will be the default and most sensible option for the majority of rental listings.