Rental properties typically feature four main flooring types: hardwood, tatami, cushioned vinyl, and carpet. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of each type's characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, typical restoration costs at move-out, and whether DIY modifications are permitted. We'll also cover daily care methods for each flooring type.
Reviewed by: Nobuyuki MoriPresident, M-Assets Co., Ltd. / Licensed Real Estate Transaction Specialist (Miyagi #018212)
Rental flooring is about more than just appearance. It significantly impacts noise levels, heat retention, ease of cleaning, and move-out costs. By selecting a property with flooring that suits both the room's purpose (living room, bedroom, children's room) and your lifestyle, you can avoid regrets after moving in.
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Let's review the characteristics of four common flooring types: hardwood, tatami, cushioned vinyl, and carpet.
Hardwood flooring is the most common flooring material in modern rental properties. There are two types: engineered wood (plywood) and solid hardwood. In rentals, engineered wood is standard.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Move-Out Considerations Hardwood scratches and stains may be subject to restoration costs. According to Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism guidelines, normal wear marks (such as furniture impressions) are the landlord's responsibility; however, damage from wheeled chairs or pet claws typically falls to the tenant. Using floor mats or rugs is effective for damage prevention.
Daily Care Dry wiping is the basic method. Avoid excessive wet cleaning, as it can cause warping and peeling. If using a hardwood floor wet mop, limit to once or twice per week.
Tatami, woven from rush grass, is an iconic traditional Japanese flooring. Modern variations such as Ryukyu tatami (frameless mats) are becoming popular, increasingly appearing in contemporary Japanese-style interiors.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Move-Out Considerations Tatami discoloration (sun fading) and minor wear are typically covered by the landlord as natural aging; however, mold, stains, and tears are usually the tenant's responsibility. Replacing a single tatami mat typically costs ¥5,000–¥15,000.
Daily Care Dry-sweep once or twice weekly, following the grain direction. During humid seasons, open windows for ventilation and vacuum regularly.
Cushioned vinyl flooring is a vinyl sheet material available in diverse designs—hardwood patterns, marble looks, tile effects, and more. Its affordability and easy installation make it common in older properties and wet areas (bathrooms and toilets).
Advantages
Disadvantages
Move-Out Considerations Vinyl yellowing and minor wear are typically covered by the landlord as normal aging; however, stains from smoking or pets, and indentations from heavy furniture, are usually the tenant's responsibility. Replacement costs range from ¥2,000–¥4,000 per square meter.
Daily Care Can be wet-cleaned for easy maintenance. Remove rubber-backed mats (bath and entry mats) frequently to prevent discoloration, and ensure good ventilation.
Wall-to-wall carpet is common in older buildings and properties in cold climates.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Move-Out Considerations Carpet fading and normal wear are typically the landlord's responsibility; however, food and beverage stains, pet hair, and tobacco odor are usually the tenant's responsibility.
| Flooring Type | Move-Out Repair Risk | Daily Maintenance | Sound Insulation | Heat Retention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood | Medium (scratches, discoloration) | Low | Low | Low |
| Tatami | Medium (mold, indentations) | Medium | Medium | High |
| Cushioned Vinyl | Low–Medium | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Carpet | Medium–High (stains, odor) | High | High | High |
Replacing flooring without permission is not permitted in rental properties. Floor mats, tile mats, and interlocking mats that simply lay on top are generally allowed (no restoration required if removed at move-out). If using mats, remember to remove and air them regularly and clean underneath.
While hardwood is the most versatile rental flooring and easiest to clean, carpet and tatami are strong options if noise reduction and heat retention are priorities. Since move-out restoration costs vary by flooring type, the best way to prevent disputes is to carefully inspect the flooring during viewings and document any existing scratches or stains on your move-in inspection checklist.
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