Introduction
Choosing the right window treatments for rental properties is essential for landlords who want to maintain a well-presented, safe, and low-maintenance home for their tenants. From durability and child safety to fire safety compliance, the materials you choose can affect both the appearance and functionality of your property.
In this guide, we’ll explore landlord-friendly window treatment options, including the benefits of faux wood Venetian blinds, flame-retardant fabrics, and how to make practical, cost-effective choices without compromising on style.
1. Faux Wood Venetian Blinds: The Ideal Landlord Choice
Faux wood Venetian blinds are one of the most practical and stylish options for rental properties. Here’s why landlords across the UK are choosing them:
Benefits:
- Extremely durable – won’t warp, crack or fade, even in kitchens or bathrooms
- Moisture-resistant – ideal for humid environments
- Low maintenance – easy to wipe clean between tenants
- Classic style – suits modern and traditional interiors alike
- Cost-effective – provides the premium look of wood at a lower price
Their robust design makes them perfect for high-traffic areas, student housing, family homes, or HMOs where blinds see regular use.
At Brighton Sunblinds, our faux wood Venetians come in a range of neutral finishes that work with almost any décor, helping your property appeal to a wider tenant market.
2. Flame Retardant (FR) Fabrics: A Must for Safety
In the UK, flame-retardant window coverings are required — in furnished rental properties, HMOs, and commercial lets.
Look for:
- FR certified fabrics, tested to BS 5867 standards
- Roller blinds and verticals in inherently flame-retardant materials
- Labelled documentation or certificates for compliance
Flame-retardant blinds reduce fire risk and may also help with insurance requirements or local authority inspections.
💡 Brighton Sunblinds offers a full range of flame-retardant blinds, ideal for all types of rental accommodation.
3. Child Safety Compliance is Legally Required
If your rental property is likely to house families or children, child safety legislation applies.
Requirements include:
- Cord safety cleats to keep cords out of reach
- Chain tensioners to reduce risk
- Visible safety warnings on all applicable blinds
- Compliance with BS EN 13120 safety standards
We strongly recommend landlords choose cordless systems or motorised options for added peace of mind and a safer tenant experience.
Brighton Sunblinds only installs blinds that comply with all UK child safety regulations.
4. Keep it Neutral and Versatile
Bold colours may suit personal homes, but neutral tones are best for rental properties. Think soft whites, greys, beiges, and natural wood tones.
Why?
- Appeals to a broader range of tenants
- Matches with existing décor or furniture
- Creates a bright, clean look in property photos
Faux wood Venetians, especially in soft oak or white finishes, are a safe and stylish choice that won’t date or clash.
5. Easy Maintenance = Long-Term Savings
Landlords should avoid blinds that require specialist cleaning or regular upkeep. Instead, opt for:
- Wipe-clean finishes (like faux wood or aluminium)
- Simple mechanisms (less likely to break)
- Replaceable components (slats, chains, brackets)
Blinds with these features make changeovers faster and reduce maintenance calls — a win for you and your property manager.
6. Best Blinds by Room Type
| Room | Recommended Treatment | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge | Faux wood Venetian blinds | Stylish, practical, durable |
| Kitchen | FR roller blinds or aluminium Venetians | Heat-resistant and easy to clean |
| Bathroom | Waterproof faux wood or PVC Venetians | Handles humidity and splash zones |
| Bedrooms | Blackout rollers or Venetians | Blocks light, easy to use |
| Children’s Room | Cordless blackout blinds | Safe and sleep-friendly |
7. Considerations for HMOs and Furnished Lets
If you’re letting furnished accommodation or managing a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), be aware of:
- Additional fire safety obligations
- Furniture and furnishings regulations (FR compliance)
- Tenant turnover – opt for blinds that can be refreshed quickly like Roller or venetian blinds
Faux wood blinds are ideal for communal areas due to their hard-wearing nature, while flame-retardant rollers are a top choice for bedrooms.
8. Work with a Trusted Supplier
At Brighton Sunblinds, we’ve supported landlords, letting agents, and property developers across Sussex for over 50 years. We offer:
✅ Free home visits and measuring
✅ Trade pricing for multi-property projects
✅ Flame-retardant and child-safe options
✅ Expert installation and aftercare
We’ll help you choose the best window treatments for rental properties — without compromising safety or style.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right window coverings for your rental property doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on:
- Durable, low-maintenance options like faux wood Venetian blinds
- Compliance with fire safety and child safety regulations
- Neutral, timeless finishes that suit every tenant
📞 Book a free home visit today and speak to one of our experts:
📧 sales@brightonsunblinds.co.uk | 📱 01273 608208