For years, finding a home in London that welcomes pets could feel like a compromise. Today, the picture is changing.
Since May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act has given most private renters in England the right to request permission to keep a pet in their home. Landlords must consider requests and cannot unreasonably refuse them.
For pet owners, it’s an important step forward. But finding the right home is still about more than ticking a “pets allowed” box. The best pet-friendly apartment is one that works for your whole household – from the space inside your home to the green spaces outside it, and the neighbourhood around you.
1. Look beyond the “pet-friendly” label
The fact that you can request permission to keep a pet doesn’t necessarily tell you what everyday life in a property will be like.
When viewing an apartment, think about the practicalities. Is there enough space for your pet to settle comfortably? Is it easy to get outside? Are there green spaces nearby? How does the building handle communal areas and maintenance?
A genuinely pet-friendly home should make life easier for both of you, rather than simply allowing your pet to live there.
2. Think about outdoor space
For many pet owners, access to green space can be just as important as the apartment itself.
That can be challenging in central London, where private outdoor space is often limited. Look for apartments with gardens, parks or walking routes nearby, particularly if you’re moving with a dog.
At Dolphin Square, residents have access to 3.5 acres of private landscaped gardens in the heart of Pimlico. It’s a rare amount of green space for a central London residential community and provides somewhere to step outside and enjoy a little breathing room without leaving home.
3. Consider the neighbourhood
Your front door is only part of your pet’s world.
Before choosing a London apartment, explore the surrounding neighbourhood on foot. Look for parks and walking routes, local pet shops, vets and cafés where you can spend time with your pet.
Pimlico offers a particularly appealing combination of central London convenience and a quieter residential character, with green spaces, riverside walks and local amenities close to Dolphin Square.
4. Understand the pet policy
The Renters’ Rights Act has strengthened protections for renters with pets, but it’s still important to understand the specific arrangements that apply to your tenancy.
Under the new rules, tenants can make a written request to keep a pet, including a description of the pet. Landlords generally have 28 days to respond and must have a reasonable basis if they refuse.
Before moving in, make sure you understand the property’s pet policy and any relevant conditions. If you’re choosing between homes, a straightforward and clearly communicated policy can make the process much easier.
5. Think about the building, not just the apartment
Living with a pet means sharing more than your own four walls. Consider how well the wider building is managed, including communal spaces, gardens, security and maintenance. A professionally managed residential community can make a real difference to the experience of living with a pet, particularly when there are shared spaces and facilities to look after.
At Dolphin Square, professional on-site management and 24-hour security are part of the wider residential experience, helping maintain a welcoming and well-managed community.
6. Make sure there’s something for you too
It’s easy to focus entirely on what your pet needs when searching for a pet-friendly apartment – but this is your home too!
Think about the lifestyle you want alongside your pet. Would you make use of a gym or swimming pool? Would a spa, café or social space make your week easier? Would you value having amenities within walking distance rather than travelling across London for everything?
At Dolphin Square, residents have access to an abundance of amenities, including preferential rates for Dolphin House Club & Spa. Designed as a lifestyle and wellness destination, Dolphin House at Dolphin Square features a swimming pool, gym and fitness facilities, as well as a spa, tennis court, co-working spaces, Café & Bar and Juice Bar.
The idea is simple: your pet should be happy at home, but you should be too.
Pet-friendly living at Dolphin Square
Dolphin Square offers pet-friendly apartments in Pimlico, with a choice of studio, one, two and three-bedroom homes within a professionally managed residential community.
With 3.5 acres of communal landscaped gardens, local parks and riverside walks nearby, and an extensive range of on-site amenities for residents, Dolphin Square offers a different way to experience pet-friendly living in central London.
Your pet gets green space to explore. You get a well-connected London home with everything you need close by.
Explore our pet-friendly apartments and discover a home for every member of the household.
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