The Best Flooring for Rental Properties: Style, Durability & ROI

Landlords across the UK face a common challenge: finding flooring that looks good, lasts long, and doesn’t cost a fortune. The right flooring can make your property more attractive to tenants, reduce maintenance costs, and increase long-term return on investment (ROI). In this guide, we’ll break down the best flooring options for rental properties—from cheap, durable flooring to stylish and waterproof Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT). We’ll show you what works, why it matters, and how to choose the right surface for your space.

Whether you’re a first-time landlord or managing multiple properties, this guide will help you make smart, cost-effective choices.

Why Flooring Matters in Rental Properties

• Visual appeal sells – Flooring is one of the first things prospective tenants notice.

• Durability equals value – A strong, hard-wearing floor reduces replacement frequency.

• Maintenance matters – The easier it is to clean, the fewer callouts and complaints.

• ROI counts – Quality flooring may cost more upfront but pays off in long-term savings and tenant satisfaction.

  
  

Top Flooring Options for Rental Homes

1. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Why it works:

• Mimics wood or stone with a modern, clean finish

• Fully waterproof and highly scratch-resistant

• Incredibly easy to clean—sweep, mop, done

• Ideal for high-traffic areas, pets, and family homes

Cost & ROI:

• Typically £20–£50 per m² installed

• Offers an excellent balance of durability, style, and long-term value

Industry insight:

“LVT has become a leading choice for UK landlords due to its durability, stylish appearance and low maintenance needs.”— Letting Agent Today (source)

Best use cases:

• Flats, kitchens, bathrooms, high-footfall living spaces

  
  

2. Laminate Flooring

Why it works:

• Affordable alternative to wood flooring

• Available in a wide range of styles and colours

• Click-lock systems make for quick and affordable installation

• Moderate water resistance with higher-quality options

Cost & ROI:

• Between £10–£30 per m² including fitting

• Good choice for medium-term lets (3–5 years)

Pitfalls:

• Less waterproof than LVT – prolonged spills can lead to swelling and damage, unlike LVT

Where it fits:

• Bedrooms, lounges, and areas with low moisture exposure

  
  

3. Sheet Vinyl Flooring

Why it works:

• One-piece design leaves no joints to trap dirt or moisture

• Fully waterproof and easy to mop

• Quiet underfoot—great for flats or terraced properties

Cost & ROI:

• Around £15–£35 per m² fitted

• Long lifespan in low-abuse areas with minimal upkeep

Best use cases:

• Kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms

  
  

4. Vinyl-Backed Carpet (Twist or Loop Pile)

Why it works:

• Adds softness, warmth, and sound insulation

• Vinyl backing helps prevent liquid from soaking into subfloors

• Available in stain-resistant varieties

Cost & ROI:

• Around £8–£25 per m² (including underlay and installation)

• Budget-friendly and tenant-approved for comfort

Considerations:

• While the vinyl backing offers some moisture protection, the carpet pile itself is not waterproof and will absorb liquids.

Best fit:

• Bedrooms, low-risk living rooms

  
  

5. Engineered Wood Flooring

Why it works:

• Real wood veneer offers high-end visual appeal

• More dimensionally stable than solid hardwood

• Can boost appeal in premium listings

Cost & ROI:

• Typically £30–£60 per m² fitted

• Higher upfront cost but can increase property value in high-spec markets

Consider:

• Sensitive to moisture—best kept away from bathrooms and kitchens

• Requires more care than LVT or vinyl

  
  

Quick Comparison Table

Flooring Type	Cost (£/m²)	Waterproof	Durability	Style Factor	Maintenance
LVT	20–50	Yes	High	Wood/stone-look	Very low
Laminate	10–30	Moderate	Medium-high	Wood-like	Low
Vinyl Sheet	15–35	Yes	High	Plain/stone-look	Very low
Vinyl Carpet (Twist/Loop)	8–25	No*	Medium	Soft & cosy	Low with vacuuming
Engineered Wood	30–60	Low*	High	Genuine wood	Moderate

Vinyl backing helps protect the subfloor from minor spills, but the carpet pile itself is not waterproof and will absorb liquids. Engineered wood can resist occasional moisture but prolonged exposure can cause warping.

What Should Landlords Really Consider?

Tenant Type & Letting Duration

• Short-term lets (e.g. Airbnb): LVT or vinyl sheet for quick turnover cleaning

• Long-term family lets: LVT or vinyl-backed carpet can withstand heavy use

• Luxury rentals: Engineered wood may attract a higher rental yield

Moisture-Prone Areas

• Kitchens and bathrooms demand waterproof solutions—LVT or sheet vinyl are ideal

Maintenance Ease

• Tenants appreciate easy-care surfaces—avoid high-maintenance flooring that could generate repair disputes

Installation Impact

• Click systems: flooring floats over underlay—easier for future replacement or for landlords to install themselves

• Bonded installations: more permanent, typically used in high-end or commercial settings

  
  

Verdict: What’s the Best Flooring for Rental Properties?

• Most versatile and durable: LVT – waterproof, tough, and great looking

• Best on a tight budget: Laminate or vinyl-backed carpet – affordable and widely available

• Best for premium appeal: Engineered wood – brings elegance, but at a higher price and care level

  
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is LVT flooring really waterproof?A: Yes. Most modern LVT is 100% waterproof, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.

Q2: How long will LVT last in a rental?A: With proper care, LVT can last between 10 and 20 years, depending on foot traffic and maintenance.

Q3: Can I install laminate or LVT myself?A: Yes, many products use simple click-fit systems that are DIY-friendly. Just follow manufacturer guidelines for subfloor prep and expansion gaps.

Q4: Is carpet still a good option for rentals?A: In certain rooms, yes. Carpet offers warmth and noise reduction, but it's not ideal for high-moisture or high-traffic zones.

Q5: Which flooring has the best ROI?A: LVT delivers excellent ROI thanks to its long lifespan, stylish finish, and low maintenance costs.

Further Reading & Useful Links

• Letting Agent Today – Flooring Trends in the UK Rental Sector

• Contract Flooring Association – Professional Advice & Flooring Standards

• British Woodworking Federation – Engineered Wood Guidelines

• Book: The Landlord’s Manual: Repairs, Tenants and Upkeep by Mike Riley

• HSE UK – Approved Flooring Safety Regulations

  
  

Conclusion

Choosing the right flooring for your rental property is more than a design decision, it’s a strategic investment. Whether you go for the practical resilience of LVT, the affordability of laminate, or the plush comfort of carpet, make sure it suits your tenant type, property style, and maintenance plan.

Get it right, and you’ll enjoy fewer complaints, better tenants, and more value over time.