Best Flooring Options for a Rental Property: A Practical Guide by Ora Flooring and Stairs

When selecting the right flooring for a rental property, it’s important to strike the perfect balance between cost, durability, and style. As a landlord or property manager, you want floors that look good to prospective tenants, stand up to heavy use, and don’t break the bank when it’s time for repairs or replacements. At Ora Flooring and Stairs, we understand that your flooring choice isn’t just about design—it’s also a long-term investment in your property.

So, what’s the best flooring for a rental unit? Let’s explore the top contenders.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): The Smart All-Rounder

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring has become the go-to choice for landlords—and for good reason. It delivers a winning combination of durability, style, and affordability. LVP is highly resistant to moisture, scratches, and dents, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms, kitchens, and hallways.

Modern vinyl planks are available in designs that closely mimic the look of hardwood and stone, giving your rental a premium appearance at a fraction of the cost. It’s also incredibly easy to maintain—perfect for tenants and landlords alike.

Why LVP Works for Rentals

• Waterproof and scratch-resistant
• Budget-friendly and long-lasting
• Simple installation and repair
• Available in realistic wood and stone looks

If you’re outfitting a small apartment or an entire house, luxury vinyl plank is one of the best choices you can make.

Carpet: Comfort Where It Counts

Carpet continues to be a popular option in bedrooms and certain living spaces, especially in colder climates. It offers a cozy feel that many renters appreciate. While it’s typically more affordable upfront, carpet does require regular cleaning and has a shorter lifespan than harder flooring types.

For rentals, carpet tiles are a smart option. If a section gets stained or damaged, you can easily replace individual tiles rather than re-carpeting an entire room.

Pros of Carpet in Rentals

• Provides sound insulation
• Warm and comfortable underfoot
• Economical for large areas
• Favored in bedrooms by many tenants

Considerations

• Prone to stains and odors
• Requires professional cleaning
• Needs replacement every 5–7 years

Use carpet selectively and pair it with low-maintenance flooring in other parts of the home for a practical blend.

Laminate: Style Without the High Price

Laminate flooring is another solid pick for rental properties. It’s engineered to replicate the look of hardwood with a photographic layer and protective topcoat. Laminate is cost-effective and relatively durable but less tolerant of moisture compared to LVP.

For landlords on a budget who still want to impress potential tenants, laminate offers the appearance of wood flooring without the hefty price tag. It’s also easy to install, especially click-lock systems that snap into place without adhesives.

Highlights of Laminate Flooring

• Budget-friendly and stylish
• Quick installation over existing floors
• Tough topcoat resists scratches

Potential Downsides

• Vulnerable to water damage
• Noisy underfoot without underlayment
• Individual boards can’t be refinished

Avoid using laminate in bathrooms, laundry areas, or other high-moisture zones. Stick to living spaces and bedrooms for best results.

Hardwood: The Classic Choice (With a Cost)

Hardwood flooring is beautiful, timeless, and increases property value—but it comes at a higher upfront cost. While hardwood appeals to many renters, it’s more susceptible to scratches, dents, and water damage. It’s also more expensive to maintain and repair.

For upscale rentals or long-term investments, hardwood can be worth it. If you choose this route, opt for tougher species like oak or hickory, and make sure to apply a protective finish.

Hardwood Benefits

• Boosts aesthetic appeal and property value
• Can be sanded and refinished
• Timeless, elegant look

Challenges

• Higher cost for materials and installation
• Requires regular upkeep
• Less forgiving with spills or pet damage

In short-term rentals or units with frequent tenant turnover, you might want to consider more durable alternatives.

Final Thoughts: Tailor Flooring Choices by Room

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best flooring for your rental property might vary depending on the room, tenant demographics, and location. For example,

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best flooring for your rental property might vary depending on the room, tenant demographics, and location. For example, ajax, oshawa, pickering, courtice, vaughan, missisauga, toronto, ottawa, peterborough, oakville, windsor, whitby.

• Use LVP in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways for durability and waterproofing.
• Choose carpet or laminate in bedrooms and living rooms for warmth and comfort.
• Reserve hardwood for premium properties or areas where wear-and-tear is minimal.

At Ora Flooring and Stairs, we help landlords across the GTA in upgrading their rental properties and make flooring decisions that are smart, stylish, and cost-effective. Our team can recommend the perfect material based on your needs—and deliver and install it on schedule. Whether you own one rental unit or manage an entire portfolio, we’re here to help you maximize your return with quality floors that last.

Ready to upgrade your rental? Get in touch with Ora Flooring and Stairs today for expert advice, personalized recommendations, and top-tier flooring solutions.