UKCan my landlord evict me for having a pet if it's not in the contract?
Yes, your landlord can still try to evict you for having a pet even if it’s not banned in your contract — but under the Renters (Reform) Act 2023, blanket pet bans in new tenancies are now unlawful.
What the Law Says
The Renters (Reform) Act 2023 introduces new protections for tenants who want to keep pets — but only for tenancies starting on or after the law’s commencement date.
Before the Renters (Reform) Act 2023, landlords could include ‘no pets’ clauses in tenancy agreements — or rely on implied terms or common law to object to pets, even if not written down. However, the new law changes this for future tenancies.
Section 1 of the Act makes it unlawful for landlords to impose a blanket ban on pets in new assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) and other qualifying private tenancies. This means a clause saying 'no pets allowed, no exceptions' is now void and unenforceable — but only for tenancies beginning on or after the provision comes into force.
Importantly, the law does not give tenants an automatic right to keep a pet. Instead, tenants must make a ‘reasonable request’ to their landlord, and the landlord may still refuse — but only with a valid, reasonable justification (e.g., property type, pet size/breed, insurance restrictions, or history of damage).
Statutory Text—
— Renters (Reform) Act 2023, s. 1 — Prohibition of blanket bans on pets
What to Do
Check your tenancy start date — the new rule only applies to tenancies beginning on or after 1 June 2024.
Make a written, reasonable request to your landlord asking permission for your pet — include details like species, size, behaviour, and any pet insurance or references.
If your landlord refuses, ask for their reasons in writing — they must be specific and justified, not just a blanket 'no'.
If you’re already living there under an older tenancy (pre-June 2024), the old rules apply — your landlord may still rely on breach of quiet enjoyment or damage concerns, even without a written clause.
If eviction proceedings begin, seek advice from Shelter, Citizens Advice, or a housing solicitor — especially if the notice appears retaliatory or unreasonable.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.