Tenant pet request tracker, RRA 2026 compliant
Accept, refuse with written reasons, or tribunal-safe, all logged.
The Renters' Rights Act 2026 gives tenants the right to request a pet. You can refuse, but only on reasonable grounds and with your reasons in writing. LetCompliance's pet request tracker gives you a structured workflow so every decision is documented and defensible.
Written-reasons template
Structured refusal template with reasonable-grounds categories (freeholder bar, property unsuitable, etc.).
Timer & reminder
Most landlords aim to respond within ~28 days of a request as a planning target. We timestamp every inbound request.
Pet insurance log
Where the tenant offers pet damage insurance, log policy details and renewal dates.
What it does
- Receives pet requests from your tenant portal
- Timestamps each request
- Offers structured accept / accept-with-conditions / refuse workflow
- Logs written reasons for any refusal
- Tracks any pet damage insurance the tenant has provided
- Generates an audit trail for tribunal or County Court
Who it\'s for
Every English landlord of an assured tenancy after 1 May 2026, particularly in leasehold flats where freeholder consent may affect the answer.
The legal basis
Renters' Rights Act 2025 (pet provisions). GOV.UK does not always repeat a single 28-day formula; many landlords still use ~28 days from sector guidance as a planning target. Refusals must be on reasonable grounds and given in writing.
Guidance only, not legal advice. Always verify with your solicitor for contested matters.
FAQs
What counts as reasonable grounds?
Freeholder restrictions in a lease, tenancy-type restrictions (e.g. HMO licence conditions), and specific property unsuitability (no outside space for a large dog) have all been cited. Pure personal dislike is not reasonable.
Can I charge a pet deposit?
No; the 5-week deposit cap applies. You can require reasonable pet damage insurance instead.
What if the tenant gets a pet without asking?
Unauthorised pets are a breach of the tenancy. Document, serve a breach notice and consider Section 8 Ground 12 if not resolved.
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