Key Things to Notice in Japanese Lease Agreements > 자유게시판

Upon relocating to a Japanese rental unit, the lease agreement—often called a "rent contract" or "rental contract"—is a legal document that outlines everything from the monthly rent to the responsibilities of both tenant and landlord.
Because the language, terminology, and legal expectations often differ greatly from what you’re accustomed to, it’s essential to read the contract carefully and know what to watch for.
Here’s a practical guide to help you identify the key points that can make or break your rental experience in Japan.

1. Recognize the essential terms.
• The property’s name, address, and unit type (apartment, house, 名古屋市東区 相続不動産 相談 share house).
• The landlord’s name or the real‑estate agency representing the landlord.
• The contract length (typically 1 or 2 years) and its start and finish dates.
• The monthly rent and its due date (commonly the 10th of the month).
• Whether the rent is "furnished" or "unfurnished.".
• The deposit (shikikin) and key money (reikin) amounts. The deposit can be refunded; key money is a non‑refundable goodwill payment to the landlord..

2. Understand the deposit and key money.
• The deposit generally equals 1–3 months’ rent, covering damage or unpaid rent. The landlord ought to issue a receipt and a copy of the deposit slip..
• Key money is usually 1–2 months’ rent. It is a one‑time payment and is not returned. If you are worried about the amount, negotiate in advance; some landlords will accept a smaller key money or waive it for good tenants..
• Watch for additional "security deposit" terms that might be hidden in the wording. Some contracts use terms like "保証金" (guarantee money) or "敷金" (shikikin). Make sure you know the difference and how it will be handled..

3. Identify the guarantor or guaranty company.
• In Japan it is common to require a guarantor (guarantee person) or a guaranty company (e.g., Aoyama Gakuin, M&A, or a local bank)..
• The guarantor typically must cover the full rent plus several months’ extra. They must submit a written guarantee..
• If a guaranty company is used, remember they charge a fee, usually about 10% of the annual rent..
• Check the contract for the guarantor’s conditions, especially whether the guarantor can be released after a certain period or if the guarantee automatically renews..

4. Check maintenance responsibilities.
• The contract must delineate which repairs fall to the tenant and which to the landlord..
• It is common for tenants to handle small plumbing or electrical repairs..
• If a major repair is needed (e.g., structural damage), the landlord should be responsible..
• Contracts may have a "property damage" provision that could trigger a penalty if you inadvertently damage fixtures..

5. Utilities and additional fees.
• Determine which utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash) are bundled in the rent and which cost separately..
• Certain contracts group utilities into a "maintenance fee" (管理費) or a "common area fee.".
• If you have a separate gas and electricity meter, the contract may say you pay individually..
• Also be aware of any "parking fee" or "storage fee" when the property offers parking or storage..

6. Subletting and guests.
• Most Japanese contracts forbid subletting without the landlord’s written consent..
• Should you intend a long‑term guest or roommate, discuss it beforehand..
• Some contracts permit "roommates" (同居人) but demand the landlord’s approval..
• Look for wording that outright prohibits "転貸" (subletting) or "転居" (moving in together)..

7. Renewal and termination provisions.
• The contract will usually state whether it can be renewed automatically or if renewal requires a new agreement..
• Leases often renew yearly, though landlords may hike the rent..
• To terminate early, you typically need to give 1–3 months’ notice (often 60 days)..
• The agreement may impose a penalty for early termination, like forfeiting the deposit or paying part of the remaining rent..
• If you intend to leave before the contract expires, negotiate a "退去料" (move‑out fee) or "退去手数料" (service fee) that may be waived..

8. Rent or contract changes notice.
• The landlord can increase rent only once a year during the renewal period..
• Rent hikes must be documented in the contract or via a formal notice ("賃料改定通知")..
• The contract should include a clause for "賃料改定" (rent adjustment) and the procedure for notifying you..
• Should the landlord wish to alter terms (such as adding a pet clause), written notice is required..

9. Pet rules.
• Many Japanese apartments forbid pets. If you have a pet, make sure the contract explicitly allows it..
• Some landlords require a pet deposit (ペット保証金) and a pet fee (ペット賃料)..
• The contract could also outline breed and size limits..

10. Language and translation issues.
• The contract is typically in Japanese. If you’re not fluent, request a translation or enlist a trusted friend to read it..
• Even if you understand Japanese, read the contract twice, focusing on areas that are ambiguous or have legal implications..
• Retain a copy of the signed contract in Japanese and any translated version you possess..

11. Final checklist before you sign.
• Verify that all the details discussed (rent, deposit, key money, guarantor, utilities, pet policy) match what is written in the contract..
• Confirm the move‑in date, the procedure for handing over keys, and the condition of the property (photos, inventory list)..
• Obtain from the landlord or agent a copy of the fire safety certificate and maintenance records..
• Make sure you receive a receipt for any payments made before the move‑in date..
• If in doubt, consult a lawyer or a housing rights organization..

Recognizing these key points can prevent common pitfalls like hidden fees, sudden rent hikes, or deposit disputes..
Carefully reviewing the contract and asking early questions will ensure a smooth rental experience in Japan and let you enjoy your new home with confidence..