The most important question is whether your home is right for the pet.

You’re more likely to be approved if:

• The pet is small and contained (e.g. fish, hamster, reptile)
• The pet will stay in your room
• You live in a self-contained property (not shared)

You’re less likely to be approved if:

• You want a dog or cat in shared student housing
• The property has limited space or shared facilities

If the property itself isn’t suitable, we may have to refuse your request. 

Do You Live With Other People?

If you live in a shared property, this is a key factor.

• If your pet will be in shared spaces, all housemates must agree
• If even one person says no, we usually cannot approve the request
• Housemates can withdraw consent later if issues arise

If your pet stays entirely in your room, this may be less of an issue.

Important Questions to Ask Yourself

Before applying, think honestly about the following:

Can you afford the pet?

First, consider whether you can comfortably afford a pet. Owning a pet involves ongoing costs such as food, vet bills, insurance, and general care. You will also be responsible for covering the cost of any damage caused to the property. If paying for these expenses would be difficult, it may affect whether permission can be granted.

Are you prepared to take full responsibility?

You should also think about whether you are ready to take full responsibility for the pet while living in rented accommodation. This includes keeping the property clean, managing any mess or smells, and ensuring the pet does not cause damage. If damage does occur, you’ll be expected to report it and pay for repairs. Being a responsible pet owner is a key part of any approval. 

Does your pet behave well?

Another important consideration is your pet’s behaviour. Pets must not cause disturbance to other tenants or neighbours. This includes excessive noise, unpleasant odours, or any aggressive behaviour. If a pet causes nuisance, it may lead to further action under your tenancy agreement, so it’s important to be confident that your pet can live calmly in the environment.

Do you have a backup plan?

Finally, think about whether you have a backup plan. In some situations, you may be asked to remove the pet from the property—for example, if issues arise with other tenants or the accommodation proves unsuitable. You should have a realistic alternative arrangement in place, such as a family home or someone who can take care of the pet if needed. Without this, it may be difficult for us to approve your request. 

Are You Already Familiar With the Pet?

You’re more likely to be approved if:

• The pet is already yours
• You understand its behaviour and needs

Requests for new pets (especially dogs or cats) are less likely to be approved unless there’s a strong reason.

When You’re More Likely to Be Approved

You have a good chance if:

• The pet is small or caged
• You live alone or in a suitable property
• Housemates (if any) fully agree
• You can afford the pet and any risks
• You have a backup plan

When It Might Be Refused

Your request may be declined if:

• The property isn’t suitable
• Other tenants don’t agree
• There’s a risk of damage or nuisance
• You can’t demonstrate responsibility or affordability

If we refuse, we’ll always explain why. 

If Your Request Is Approved

If you’re successful, you’ll need to:

• Sign a Pet Agreement Form
• Follow our Pet Behaviour Policy
• Take full responsibility for the pet

Pets must be properly cared for, kept clean, and must not disturb others. 

Next Step

If you think your request is suitable, contact your Property or Building Manger. They will provide you with a form, which will allow you to tell us about you and the pet you would like. The more information you provide, the easier it is for us to make a fair decision.

For more information, contact Tenancy Support on tenancysupport@unipol.org.uk.