A ‘no pets’ advert can rule out an otherwise suitable home, and searching around that restriction is frustrating. Some owners may be willing to discuss it if they understand the animal and have reassurance about noise or damage. Ask early, with a short description and a previous landlord's reference if you have one, so neither side wastes time.
What to tell the owner
Give the pet's age, size, temperament and how long it is usually left alone. Include relevant microchip or vaccination details if requested. A reference from someone whose home you previously rented can help address the owner's concern about how the property will be treated.
If the owner won't consider pets, move on to other homes. Concealing an animal can leave you in breach of the agreement and put you back into a search after you've already moved.
Check how the property will work day to day
Look for a workable walking route, flooring you can keep clean and shade if there is outside space. A small practical home can suit you better than a larger one with no easy way out for the dog.
In an urbanisation, ask about communal gardens, lifts, leads and pool areas. The owner's permission to keep your pet doesn't mean you can take it into every shared space.
Get the permission written down
The contract should make the agreed pet permission clear. If the owner requests extra security, ask how it is being classified and check the applicable legal limit. Don't hand over an informal cash ‘pet deposit’ without terms or a receipt.
Photograph doors, furniture and floors at handover. Deal with damage your pet actually causes, but make sure you aren't paying for scratches that were there before you arrived.
Before you go ahead
- Pet profile and reference prepared
- Contract permission explicit
- Community rules checked
- Additional guarantee itemised
- Detailed condition record completed
Useful places to look
These links open the searches mentioned in the guide. Check each advert's dates and terms with the advertiser.
Common questions
Can I offer a larger deposit?
Additional guarantees can be regulated and should be separated from the statutory fianza. Check the current legal limit for your contract rather than offering an undefined cash amount.
Should I apply if an advert says no pets?
You can ask politely with a strong pet profile, but accept a clear refusal and never conceal the animal.
Sources and further reading
Official information checked on 12 October 2026. Rules and procedures can change; verify the live source for your exact circumstances.