A Victory for Pets and People: Celebrating the Renters’ Rights Bill

At different points in my life, pets have made my house a home. Whether it was Ted, my  Pug, cross who was never happier than when it was time for a walk, who introduced me to countless other pet parents in my local park, or our cat, Hope, who never let me forget to take a break from the screen to meet her “real world” demands for attention and Dreamies, I couldn’t begin to imagine the feeling of being forced to choose between keeping a beloved companion or finding and staying in a suitable home. 

This choice, however, has been a devastating reality for too many pet owners across England, due to restrictive rental policies. But change is finally underway. Thanks to the long-awaited Renters’ Rights Bill, which has now become law in England, the future looks brighter - one where every pet can have a home, and every home can welcome a pet. 

Breaking Down Barriers to Pet Ownership 

For far too long, rental restrictions have stood in the way of pet ownership. A recent YouGov survey, commissioned by Mars and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, revealed that 40% of renters have previously been unable to get a pet due to landlord policies. Even more heartbreaking, nearly 1 in 5 renters who were denied permission to keep a pet were forced to give them up entirely.   

The Renters’ Rights Bill changes that. Tenants now have the legal right to request pets in their homes, removing a major obstacle for millions of animal lovers across the country. Now, landlords will only be able to refuse with a good reason, which will be clarified in an accompanying guidance document, soon to be released. This isn’t just a win for renters, it’s a win for the countless cats, dogs, and other animals waiting for a family to call their own. 

The Wellbeing Power of Pets 

Our wellbeing has become an increasing priority across our daily lives, with 45% of people across 31 countries identifying mental health as a top health concern.  As 70% of pet parents surveyed by YouGov cite mental health and wellbeing as key reasons for owning a pet, we know that the emotional support and companionship of animals can be life-changing. But these benefits shouldn’t be reserved for homeowners alone. Everyone, regardless of their housing status, deserves the chance to experience the joy of pet ownership. With this new legislation, we’re one step closer to making that a reality. 

Advocating for Pet Owners 

Mars, alongside our long-term partners Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, have been advocating for renters’ rights for over three years. In the UK, we’ve made it the focus of our Better Cities for Pets programme - we’ve listened to pet owners, collaborated with experts, and worked closely with parliamentary peers to help shape legislation that reflects the needs of modern families. But with only 8% of renters currently aware of what the changes to the law actually mean for them, our work isn’t done. That’s why we’re committed to raising awareness and ensuring that every tenant understands their new rights when it comes to renting with pets. 

Opening Doors to Ownership 

The impact of this transformative new law is already being felt. Nearly half (45%) of private renters say they’re now likely to welcome a new or additional pet into their homes, meaning more opportunities to adopt, foster, and give loving homes to animals in need. 

At Mars, we want to create a world where every pet has a happy home. To do this, we need to continue to tackle pet homelessness, support responsible ownership, and build a society where pets aren’t just permitted, they’re welcomed. 

The Renters’ Rights Bill is a powerful step in this direction. This is a victory for pets, for tenants, and for the belief that companionship matters - pets truly make a house a home.