Renting in London is finally catching up with its dog-loving residents. While finding pet-friendly rooms has always been tough for tenants, many landlords are realising there’s opportunities in welcoming four-legged friends. We look at how both sides can benefit in a city where good tenants and great rooms are like gold dust, with a few neighbourhoods that might interest tenants added in for good measure.
Why is Renting in London attractive for dog owners?
London’s appeal to dog owners extends far beyond its parks and green spaces. The capital has embraced pet-friendly living with dedicated facilities springing up across its neighbourhoods, from dog-friendly cafes and pubs to specialist groomers and daycare centres. Many areas combine village-like communities with excellent amenities, while shifts in rental policies have made it easier for tenants with pets to find suitable homes. Transport links also mean countryside escapes are within easy reach.
What are these shifts in rental policies?
Changes to rental laws have made it harder for landlords to refuse pets outright. The 2024 Renters’ Rights Bill requires landlords to consider pet requests fairly and provide valid reasons for any refusal. While not yet law, the Model Tenancy Agreement already encourages pet-friendly defaults, giving tenants more power to challenge blanket bans.
What problems do landlords and tenants face when it comes to renting with pets?
While there have been some measures put in place to make it easier to rent a room or property with a pet, there are still some hurdles faced by both landlords and tenants.
Problems for landlords
Renting your property to someone with a pet can be a great option, but it also comes with a few potential challenges to consider. Property damage remains the biggest concern for landlords considering pet-friendly lets, with over 85% reporting past issues with pet damage. Many struggle to recoup costs, as only 0.5% successfully claim through insurance. There’s also worry about noise complaints from neighbours, potential flea infestations and extra cleaning costs between tenancies.
Here are some key problems landlords might face:
Property Damage
Pets, especially dogs, can cause wear and tear on your property. Scratched floors, chewed furniture, or stained carpets are common issues, especially if you are renting a room fully furnished. Some pets also have accidents indoors, which can damage flooring and leave lingering odours.
Allergies
If you’re renting to someone with a pet, it can be a problem for future tenants who may have pet allergies. Even if the pet has been removed, traces of hair, dander, or scent might remain.
Noise Complaints
Pets, particularly dogs, can be noisy, barking at strange noises, other animals, or when left alone. This could lead to complaints from neighbours, especially if you have tenants in shared housing.
Cleaning Costs
Pets tend to shed fur and leave behind dander, so additional cleaning may be needed when the tenant moves out. This might mean deeper cleaning or even replacing carpets or furniture more frequently, leading to higher costs.
Insurance Costs
Some landlords may see increased costs with insurance policies that cover pet-related incidents, such as liability if a pet injures someone or damages property.
Liability Risks
There’s a risk that a pet could injure another person, whether it’s a neighbour or a visitor. Some pets, especially certain breeds, can be more prone to aggression, which might increase the risk of injury or legal issues.
Pet Restrictions
You’ll need to set clear boundaries on the types of pets allowed, size, breed, etc. Some tenants may attempt to sneak in pets that are outside the terms of the agreement, leading to potential conflicts.
Marketability
While many pet owners are actively seeking pet-friendly rentals, some tenants may be less interested in renting from a landlord who allows pets, which could limit your pool of potential renters.
To mitigate these risks, many landlords charge a pet deposit or increase the security deposit, set clear pet policies in the lease, and even have tenants sign a pet agreement outlining responsibilities for pet behaviour, cleaning, and damage repair. It’s all about balancing the benefits of attracting good tenants with pets against the risks of property upkeep and liability.
Problems for tenants
Finding pet-friendly rooms can, at times, feel like mission impossible, with just 7% of properties advertised as pet-friendly. Landlords’ concerns about property damage mean many won’t even consider pets, while others demand significantly higher deposits or rents. Space is also at a premium in the capital, meaning many of the properties might be on the smaller side or lack outdoor space, not ideal for pets.
Here are some of the most common issues:
Limited Pet-Friendly Options
Many landlords have strict no-pet policies, which significantly limits the pool of available rentals. Pet owners often find themselves competing for the small number of properties that accept pets, which can make the search more stressful and time-consuming.
Breed or Size Restrictions
Landlords often impose specific breed or size restrictions, especially with dogs. Certain breeds (e.g., pit bulls, Rottweilers) are often banned, and tenants with larger dogs may struggle to find places that accommodate their pets. This limits tenant options even further, particularly for those with larger or less common breeds.
Higher Rent
Pet-friendly renting in London can sometimes come with higher rent prices. Landlords may charge more for properties that allow pets, anticipating the added wear and tear or potential risks associated with pet ownership. This can make it harder for pet owners to find affordable housing.
Damage Concerns
Many tenants with pets worry about potential damage to the property, such as scratched floors, stains, or fur buildup, which might lead to losing part of their deposit or getting hit with unexpected cleaning fees. The fear of this financial penalty can make some pet owners hesitant to commit to a rental.
Lack of Transparency
Many room rental listings don’t clearly state whether pets are allowed, or landlords may be vague about their pet policies until after a tenant has applied. This creates uncertainty and wastes time for tenants, as they may apply for a place only to find out after the fact that their pets aren’t allowed.
Harder to Get Approved
Some pet owners find that having a pet can hurt their chances of getting approved for a room rental, especially if there are multiple applicants for the same property. Landlords might favour tenants without pets because they assume they’ll cause fewer issues, making the competition tougher for pet owners.
Increased Competition
The limited number of pet-friendly room rentals means that tenants often face a lot of competition. Pet owners may find themselves competing with other pet owners for the same property, which can drive up fees, make landlords more selective, and result in longer waits to secure a place.
No Pet-Friendly Amenities
Even when tenants do find a pet-friendly room rentals, the property may lack pet-friendly amenities, such as a fenced garden, dog park, or small living space. Without these features, pet owners may find it difficult to provide the quality of life their pets deserve.
How can tenants and landlords navigate a pet-friendly rental market?
Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, there are ways to make renting or letting easier when there’s a pet involved.
I’m a landlord. Should I let my property to tenants with dogs?
Accepting tenants with dogs can be a good business decision for landlords in today’s rental market. With so few properties advertised as ‘pet-friendly’ landlords who welcome dogs often find themselves with a wider pool of high-quality, long-term tenants.
However, renting to tenants with pets can present challenges, but the good news is, there are ways to reduce the risks while still benefiting from the opportunity.
Property Damage
To protect against potential damage, charge a pet deposit or pet fee. This helps cover any costs from wear and tear. It’s also a good idea to include a pet behaviour clause in the lease, making tenants responsible for their pets’ actions. You can also consider screening pets for past behaviour issues.
Allergies
Allergies can be a cause for concern, but you can invest in deep cleaning services after a pet tenant moves out to ensure allergens like dander are removed. If this has been a particular problem in the past, am option is to restrict certain types of pets (e.g., cats or non-hypoallergenic breeds) if needed.
Noise Complaints
Dogs can sometimes be noisy. Including a pet behaviour clause in the lease can help, requiring tenants to manage excessive noise. If you’re renting in shared housing, soundproofing can reduce disturbances. Make sure your lease clearly outlines expectations around noise levels, and take action if complaints arise.
Cleaning Costs
Pets can leave behind fur, dirt, and odours. To cover cleaning costs, you can require tenants to pay for professional cleaning services, especially if the property has carpets or fabrics that require deep cleaning. Switching to hard flooring (tile, laminate, or hardwood) can reduce long-term maintenance and make cleaning easier.
Insurance Costs
Some landlords face higher insurance costs when renting to pet owners, so it’s worth checking with your insurance company about additional coverage. Another option is to require tenants to have renters’ insurance that covers pet liability.
Liability Risks
Pets can pose a liability risk, particularly if they injure someone. To protect yourself, have tenants sign a pet liability waiver acknowledging they’re responsible for any damages or injuries.
Pet Restrictions
Set clear guidelines in the lease about the types of pets allowed, such as breed, size, or restrictions on the number of pets allowed. This helps prevent problems down the line and ensures that pets are a good fit for your property. You can also request proof of vaccinations and pet registration to ensure the pet is well-managed.
Marketability
Pet-friendly rentals can attract a larger pool of tenants, but it’s important to advertise your property as such. Make sure your listing clearly states your pet policy, so pet owners know if they’re eligible. Adding pet amenities, like a dog park or a pet washing station, can also make your property more appealing to potential renters.
I’m a tenant. How can I rent with my pet?
Successful pet-owning tenants understand that preparation is everything. Create a proper ‘pet CV’ including vet records showing vaccinations are up to date, training certificates if you have them and references from previous landlords or neighbours about your pet’s behaviour. Be ready to meet potential costs, whether that’s pet insurance, professional cleaning at tenancy end or a higher deposit within legal limits.
When house-sharing, always arrange for flatmates to meet your pet before moving in and be totally upfront about your pet’s routine and needs. Many landlords appreciate longer tenancy commitments too, as it shows stability. Most importantly, keep communication open. The best tenancies start with honesty about having a pet rather than trying to sneak one in later.
Best dog-friendly accommodation in London
Here are some of the neighbourhoods that you should consider if you own a dog.
1) West Drayton
West Drayton combines affordability with excellent transport links and plenty of green spaces for dog owners. The area has seen significant investment recently, making it increasingly attractive to renters with pets. Colne Valley Regional Park sits on its doorstep, offering miles of waterside walks and woodland trails perfect for daily dog exercise, while Stockley Country Park provides another expansive option for off-lead adventures.
Local pubs have embraced the area’s growing dog-owning population, with spots like The White Horse and De Burgh Arms welcoming four-legged visitors. Paddington is just 20 minutes away on the Elizabeth, making it ideal for commuters who need to get home for dog-walking duties.
Room prices reflect West Drayton’s Zone 6 location, with rooms averaging £750 per month, significantly less than central London options while offering more space and access to nature.
2) Camden
Camden has earned its reputation as one of London’s most pet-friendly neighbourhoods, where dogs are as much a part of the local scene as the market’s famous street food. Regent’s Canal provides scenic towpath walks, while Primrose Hill offers panoramic city views and plenty of space for dogs to run free.
The area’s legendary music venues and pubs have gotten in on the act too. The Lock Tavern welcomes dogs into its beer garden, while the Spread Eagle on Albert Street has become a hub for local pet owners. Even the Curzon Cinema runs special dog-friendly screenings, showing that Camden’s cultural scene extends to four-legged visitors.
Rooms in Camden command premium prices, between £900 and £1,200 monthly, reflecting its Zone 2 location and excellent amenities. But for pet owners wanting to live somewhere that truly embraces dog culture—from canal-side cafes to shop owners keeping treats behind the counter—Camden’s worth every penny.
3) Enfield
Enfield’s blend of suburban calm and vast green spaces makes it an increasingly popular choice for dog owners priced out of central London. The jewel in its crown is Trent Park, which features nearly 170 acres of ancient woodland, lakes and meadows where dogs can roam off-lead, while Forty Hall’s historic grounds offer another scenic backdrop for daily walks.
The area’s pet-friendly credentials extend beyond its parks. Local establishments have caught on to the growing dog-owning population, with pubs like The Salisbury Arms welcoming four-legged visitors. A strong community of dog walkers has developed, particularly around Enfield Playing Fields, where regular meetups help both pets and owners socialize.
Rooms in Enfield average £775 monthly, offering good value for Zone 5. While the commute might be longer, the trade-off is worth it for pet owners seeking more space and greenery. The area’s excellent transport links mean central London’s still easily accessible when needed.
4) Brent
Brent offers dog owners an appealing mix of convenience and green escapes. Brent River Park cuts a green corridor through the borough, providing miles of riverside walks and natural trails. The recently restored Tokyngton Park has become a hub for local dog walkers, especially popular during morning and evening walkies.
The area’s strong transport links haven’t gone unnoticed by pet owners working in central London. With multiple tube lines and regular buses, it’s easy to balance city jobs with dog-friendly living. Local pubs have adapted to meet the growing pet population, though it’s the area’s parks that remain the biggest draw for four-legged residents.
Room rentals in Brent hover around £850 monthly, offering good value for Zone 3/4. Many properties back onto green spaces or quiet streets, making them ideal for pet owners seeking the sweet spot between affordability and amenities.
5) Tower Hamlet
Tower Hamlets shows how London’s East End has evolved into a surprisingly welcoming spot for dog owners. Victoria Park—fondly known as ‘Vicky Park’ to locals—leads the charge with its 86 hectares of green space, offering everything from peaceful lake walks to dedicated dog exercise areas. The Regent’s Canal towpath provides another favourite route, linking Mile End Park’s quiet corners with the bustle of Broadway Market.
Local spots increasingly welcome four-legged visitors, though it’s worth noting the council’s proposed changes to dog-walking rules. Keeping informed about local regulations helps everyone share these spaces happily. The borough’s mix of old and new means you’re as likely to find a traditional pub welcoming dogs as you are a trendy canal-side café.
Rooms in the borough of Tower Hamlets average £925 monthly, reflecting its Zone 2 location and growing popularity. The combination of extensive green spaces and quick links to the City makes it particularly appealing for pet owners balancing work with walkies.
6) Lambeth
Lambeth mixes city buzz with surprising pockets of calm that dog owners love. Brockwell Park, which is ‘Brixton’s Beach’ to locals, leads the pack with its 125 acres of rolling hills and hidden corners, while the smaller Vauxhall Park provides a perfect spot for quick morning walks. Even bustling areas like the South Bank have embraced dog culture, with riverside walkways offering unique London views for both two and four-legged wanderers.
The borough’s cafe culture has become particularly pet-friendly. Places like Scooter Caffe serve up coffee with a side of dog treats, while traditional pubs across Kennington and Oval welcome pups with water bowls and belly rubs. The strong community of dog walkers, especially around Brockwell and Kennington Parks, means your morning walk often doubles as a social hour.
Room rentals in Lambeth vary widely, averaging £975 monthly, though you’ll find better value away from the river. The combination of central location, abundant green spaces and an increasingly pet-positive attitude makes it worth considering for dog owners who want to be close to the action.
7) Hackney
Across Hackney’s streets and green spaces, dogs have become as much a part of local life as artisan coffee and vintage markets. From London Fields’ morning dog-walking scene to the vast expanse of Hackney Marshes, the borough serves up plenty of options for daily walks and weekend adventures.
In typical East London fashion, the area’s independent businesses have embraced their four-legged customers. The Prince Arthur welcomes muddy paws after marsh walks, while cafes along Church Street compete to offer the best dog treats. Even better, the Regent’s Canal towpath creates a peaceful walking route right through the heart of the borough.
You’ll find rooms here averaging £900 monthly, which is competitive for Zone 2. What your money buys is access to some of London’s best green spaces and a genuinely dog-friendly community where pet owners gather everywhere from Victoria Park to Broadway Market.
8) Lewisham
Lewisham stands out as an attractive option for London’s dog owners with something that’s increasingly rare in the capital: properties with gardens. Over half of homes feature outdoor space, and the area is particularly well-served by parks, including nearby Blackheath’s expansive commons, the rolling landscapes of Hilly Fields and the leafy paths of Mountsfield Park all providing excellent walking routes for dogs.
Beyond its green credentials, Lewisham’s more affordable rental market and strong transport connections make it a practical choice for pet owners. A room costs around £1,000 per month, with one and two-bed properties achieving in the region of £1,750 and £2,115, respectively.
9) Ealing
Ealing combines suburban charm with excellent amenities for dog owners, making it one of West London’s most pet-friendly areas. The borough features over 100 parks and open spaces, including Walpole Park with its 28 acres of green space, and the expansive Gunnersbury Park offering dedicated walking trails and off-lead areas.
The area’s strong pet-friendly credentials extend beyond its parks. Easy access to the Central line means quick connections to central London, while a thriving community of dog owners regularly meets at local parks and cafes. Dog-friendly establishments like The Grange and The Wheatsheaf welcome four-legged visitors, while regular training classes and socialisation groups help build a supportive community.
For renters, Ealing’s property market offers more value compared to central London, with many landlords embracing pet-friendly policies. Rooms cost around £1,130, while a one-bed flat achieves £1,920 per month. Two beds go on the market for around £2,600.
Renting in London with Room for Rent
Finding a pet-friendly room in London shouldn’t require endless scrolling and emails. Room for Rent makes the process simpler for both sides of the rental market. We let landlords easily list their rooms and connect directly with tenants, giving you the option to say if it’s pet friendly.
For Landlords
List your pet-friendly room quickly and easily on Room for Rent from as little as £14.95. Simply tick the “pet-friendly” option when creating your listing to reach tenants specifically searching for properties that welcome pets. Our messaging system lets you discuss specific pet policies and requirements directly with potential tenants.
For Tenants
Use our dedicated search filter to find pet-friendly rooms across London. Once you’ve found potential matches, you can message landlords directly through our platform to discuss their pet policies, ask questions about the property, and even arrange viewings. No more wasting time on properties that won’t consider your furry friend.
Renting with dogs in London
Finding pet-friendly rooms in London remains challenging, especially when so few properties advertise pets. But with proper preparation—from pet CVs to insurance—tenants can appeal to landlords who increasingly see the benefits of pet-friendly lets, while landlords can increase their chances of a faster let. Room for Rent simplifies this process, connecting considerate pet owners with open-minded landlords through straightforward searches and direct communication.
Check out Room for Rent, whether you’re a landlord or tenant.
