How to choose the best carpets for Chester buy-to-let landlords

The ideal carpets for buy-to-let property are easy to clean, durable and can be installed at a reasonable cost.

Easy to clean

Not all carpets are easy to clean. While tenants are expected to keep the carpets clean, a difficult to clean carpet could discourage them from regular maintenance. Any carpet damage can be taken off the deposit when a tenant leaves, and landlords may be able to claim for the cost of cleaning if the carpets are left in a dirty state when tenants leave. Ideally, tenants will leave a clean carpet when they vacate the property ready for the new tenants to move in without the landlord having to thoroughly clean or replace carpets.

Dark colour carpets will not show up dirt as much as lighter coloured ones, but this should not stop tenants cleaning them.

All carpets can be vacuumed, but this only removes loose dirt and debris. Deep down dirt and stains are not always removed by a vacuum cleaner.

Berber carpets are amongst the easiest to clean as they are often treated with stain resistant solutions. Nylon is tough and stain resistant and is relatively easy to clean, while polyester carpets share some of the stain resistant qualities of nylon but can absorb oils. After oil has been absorbed it is extremely difficult to remove. Other than that, polyester is easy to vacuum and clean.

Polypropylene carpets are made from oil-based fibres and resist stains. They are easy to clean and stains can be removed with a spot treatment.

Natural wool and cotton carpets are more difficult to clean and need more care. They are perhaps not the best choice for tenants who hold regular parties, so near this in mind if your tenants are University of Chester students!

A good vacuum will be more efficient at cleaning carpets. Tenants should be encouraged to use a Dyson or other premium make of cleaner, or landlords may supply one.

Durability

The strength of a carpet and how long it will last depends on a number of factors, including how tenants look after the carpet. Short and cut pile carpets generally last longer and show fewer signs of wear than long pile ones. Quality manmade and natural fibre carpets should both wear well.

The main criteria that affects how long a carpet will last is the quality of the carpet. Thin cheap carpets will not last as long as better grades.

Cost

Carpets vary considerably in cost. A top-quality wool carpet is perhaps the most expensive but may be suitable for a luxury home that attracts high rent payers. On top of the price of the carpet, there are fitting costs and underlay may be required.

For most properties stain resistant, durable carpets are best. It is worth paying a little extra for a better quality carpet that will last and can easily be cleaned after tenants leave.

Choosing the best carpets is not easy. A trusted carpet supplier will advise Chester landlords on the best choice of carpets to suit their properties and budget.