Best Carpets for Rental Properties (Landlord Guide)

For landlords, flooring is an investment that needs to yield a return. You need a carpet that looks neutral and modern to attract tenants, but is tough enough to withstand neglect and easy enough to clean between tenancies.

Avoid wool. While lovely, if a tenant spills red wine on a wool carpet, it's often ruinous. Instead, specify 'Solution Dyed Nylon' or high-quality Polypropylene. These synthetic fibers are inherently stain-resistant and can often be cleaned with harsh chemicals like bleach without losing color.

Color choice is strategic. Light cream looks spacious but shows every mark. Dark grey shows lint and dust. The 'sweet spot' is a mid-tone 'mottled' or 'heathered' beige or grey. The multi-tonal yarn hides small stains and fluff effectively, keeping the property looking presentable for longer.

Don't go for the absolute cheapest 'cord' carpet unless it's a very low-budget student let. A cheap carpet flattens in months and makes the whole property feel tired. Spending just £2-£3 more per square meter for a decent twist pile adds years to the lifespan and suggests a higher quality home to prospective tenants.

Finally, maintain a consistent flooring type where possible. Using the same carpet throughout the bedrooms and living areas reduces waste during fitting and allows you to keep offcuts for future patch repairs—a huge money-saver if a tenant burns a small hole.