Renting with pets
Having a pet in a rented home
You must ask your landlord for permission if you want a pet.
But your landlord can only say no for a good reason. For example, if you rent a flat and the building owner does not allow pets.
Deposits and costs
Your landlord could try to keep your deposit if your pet causes damage.
You might have to pay extra for things like cleaning when you're moving out.
Your landlord could try to evict you if you get a pet without asking.
Your landlord must ask the court for an order to evict you. The court might let you stay.
If you're a lodger
You are probably a lodger if you share living areas with your landlord. For example, if you share a kitchen, living room or bathroom.
Your landlord can refuse to let you have a pet if you're a lodger.
They do not have to have a good reason.
Service, assistance and emotional support animals
Your landlord cannot refuse permission for an animal that helps with your disability. For example, an assistance dog trained to support people who are visually impaired or have epilepsy.
It might be harder to get permission for an emotional support animal that is not registered.
But your landlord cannot refuse without a good reason. It could be discrimination if they do.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has information about disability discrimination.
Last updated: 1 May 2026
