The owner is who decides what to do in their house. As contractors, we give pieces of advice on what is code friendly or what is against the code. We do not recommend installing a laminate floor on a rented house at all. 90% of the kitchens have tile floors. It is simple, durable, and stronger.
If a pot or a knife falls against a laminate floor, it could damage it. But is you do not go to the kitchen too often or you do not cook, then laminate is an option to consider.