For pet lovers, finding a home that welcomes your furry friend isn’t just a bonus — it’s essential. At Essential Living, we understand that pets are part of the family. That’s why all of our build-to-rent apartments are pet friendly, and many of our residents are proud pet owners.
In this guide, we explore what it’s like to rent with pets in London — from what to expect when applying, to how to find the best areas and join a welcoming pet community.
Pet-Friendly Living at Essential Living
At Essential Living, our philosophy is simple: if you’re welcome, so is your pet. All our developments are pet-friendly, with no hidden restrictions or fees. We’re proud to host:
- A thriving community of pet owners
- Pet-focused events across our buildings
- Apartments designed for real life — fur and all
Whether you’re moving in with a cat, dog or something smaller, you’ll find a home here.
View all available pet-friendly apartments:
What Landlords Expect When Renting with Pets
What you might need:
- Pet details: breed, age, and behaviour
- Possibly a pet reference from a previous landlord or vet
- Commitment to responsible pet ownership: cleanliness, noise control, and no damage
You can also check out the Model Tenancy Agreement from the UK Government — it outlines recommended pet clauses in UK rentals:
Model Tenancy Agreement (gov.uk)
Do I Need to Pay Extra to Rent with a Pet?
In most cases, no. The Tenant Fees Act 2019 limits what landlords can charge. At Essential Living, we don’t require any extra deposit or fee to live with pets. Occasionally, other landlords may ask for:
- A slight rent premium (usually £20–£50/month)
- Special clauses in your agreement for cleaning or maintenance
Tips for Renting with Pets in London
Prepare a Pet Profile
- Include basic details like breed, weight, vaccinations
- Ask your vet for a character reference
- Share previous rental experience, if applicable
Stick to a Routine
Pets feel most secure with structure — especially during a move. Keep walk and feeding times consistent.
Make Use of the Community
Join resident events, introduce your pet to neighbours, and tap into local recommendations for groomers, walkers and vets.
Renting with Pets: What Are the Rules in 2025?
Traditionally, landlords could refuse pets without justification. But with proposed changes to the Renters (Reform) Bill, that could soon change.
Under the bill, tenants will gain the legal right to request a pet, and landlords must not unreasonably refuse. While not yet passed into law, this shift reflects growing demand for pet-friendly homes — especially in build-to-rent housing.
You can read more about the proposed legislation in our full breakdown:
New Government’s Changes to Renting – Essential Living
For further detail on the Renters (Reform) Bill, see the official UK Government update:
Renters (Reform) Bill - Animal Sentence Commitee – GOV.UK
Top Pet-Friendly Areas in and Around London
Islington / Archway
Explore Hampstead Heath, Waterlow Park and leafy neighbourhood routes.
Explore Vantage Point
Greenwich
Enjoy riverside walks and the vast open spaces of Greenwich Park.
Discover Union Wharf
Bethnal Green
Dressage Court offers easy access to Hackney Marshes, Jubilee Park and the River Lea towpaths — perfect for morning walks.
Explore Dressage Court
Maidenhead
Live in the leafy suburbs with excellent access to riverside paths, Braywick Park, and nearby countryside trails.
View Berkshire House
Join Our Thriving Pet Community
With flexible layouts, friendly neighbours, and green space just outside, Essential Living offers one of the best rental experiences for pet owners in and around London.
The demand for rented properties that allow pets has seen a surge in recent years.
Finding pet-friendly flats to rent can be difficult though.
You can make the most of London’s social scene by living in the heart of some of the best-sought areas, from Vantage Point in Islington to Union Wharf in Greenwich to Dressage Court in Bethnal Green.
Want to learn more about what it’s like living with us? Start your Essential Living journey here by requesting a viewing.
View all available pet-friendly apartments
FAQs About Renting with Pets
Are all Essential Living flats pet-friendly?
Yes — every one of our build-to-rent homes welcomes pets, with no hidden clauses or fees.
Do you host pet events?
Absolutely. From resident meetups to dog-friendly socials, we regularly organise pet-themed events across our developments.
What pets are allowed?
Dogs, cats, and other well-behaved animals are welcome. If you’re unsure, just get in touch.
Do I need to pay a pet deposit?
No — we don’t charge any pet-specific deposit. Your monthly rent stays the same.
Where can I find pet-friendly flats in Islington?
Our Vantage Point development in Archway offers pet-friendly apartments near Hampstead Heath and Waterlow Park, ideal for dog walks and community pet life.
What are the best dog-friendly areas to rent in London?
Greenwich, Walthamstow, Leyton, and Islington all offer great access to green space, parks, and pet services. Each location also includes pet-friendly Essential Living homes.
Can I rent a flat with a dog in Greenwich?
Yes — Union Wharf in Greenwich is a pet-welcoming building with access to riverside paths, Greenwich Park, and local groomers and vets.
Are there any pet-friendly rentals outside of London?
Yes — Berkshire House in Maidenhead is perfect for pet owners looking for more space, peaceful parks, and easy access to riverside walking trails.
How do I rent a flat in London with a cat or small pet?
Include pet details on your application and be transparent with landlords. All Essential Living homes are cat-friendly with no breed or size restrictions.
Do London landlords accept pets in build-to-rent apartments?
Build-to-rent landlords like Essential Living are leading the way in offering pet-inclusive homes. We’ve designed our spaces with both people and pets in mind.
