Mastering Rental Deposits and Fees in Japan > 자유게시판

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"When you arrive into a new home in Japan, the first thing you’ll notice is a multitude of fees that go beyond the monthly rent. Even if you’re new to the country, familiarizing yourself with these charges can save you thousands of yen and help you avoid common pitfalls. Below is a practical guide to the most common deposits and fees you’ll encounter, how they work, and tips for navigating them like a local."

Grasping the Basics: What Is a Deposit?

"In Japan, the term "deposit" (保証金, shōhōkin) refers to the money you hand over to your landlord at the start of a lease. Unlike many Western systems where a security deposit is simply a refundable sum, Japanese deposits are structured in a few different ways:"

"•　保証金 (Shōhōkin) – The "security deposit" that is fully refundable when the property is returned in good condition."
"•　礼金 (Reikin) – A "gift" fee paid to the landlord as a sign of gratitude for letting you rent. It is non‑refundable and typically equals one or two months’ rent"
"•　敷金 (Shikikin) – A "maintenance deposit" held by the landlord for repairs. If you leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in, this is also fully refundable, but it is usually smaller than the shōhōkin."
"•　仲介手数料 (Chūkai tesūryō) – The broker’s commission, typically equal to one month’s rent or sometimes two months. Many agencies will require you to pay this upfront."
"•　敷金・礼金・仲介手数料の合計 (Shikikin, Reikin, Chūkai tesūryō no gōkei) – Lease agreements usually list all of these together. Don’t confuse the sum of the fees with the individual components; each has its own rules for refund."

Common Amounts

"A quick look at typical numbers will help you gauge whether you’re being charged fairly:"

"•　Shōhōkin: 1 to 2 months’ rent"
"•　Reikin: 1–2 months’ rent (sometimes 3 months for high‑end properties)"
"•　Shikikin: 1 month’s rent (often less than shōhōkin)"
"•　Broker commission: one to two months’ rent"

"If your lease states "保証金＋礼金＋敷金＋仲介手数料" and the total is 4–5 months’ rent, that’s usually standard. Anything higher warrants a careful examination, especially if the landlord is in a hurry to fill the unit."

How to Check the Refund Process

"Because the shōhōkin and shikikin are refundable, you should confirm how the refund will be handled:"

"•　Verify the lease includes a "退去時の返金手続き" (refund procedure at move‑out)."
"•　Ask whether the refund will be paid in a single lump sum or in installments."
"•　Ensure the landlord agrees to a documented and fair "damage assessment"."
"•　Request a receipt or an inventory list (入居時・退去時の検査表) that notes the condition of the rooms and appliances."

Negotiating and Reducing Fees

"The Japanese rental market is not a closed shop. There are several ways to negotiate or reduce fees:"

"•　Provide evidence of good credit and steady income: Landlords may reduce or waive reikin if you demonstrate reliability."
"•　Ask for a Slightly Lower Shōhōkin: Some landlords allow you to pay 0.5 or 1 month’s rent as a security deposit, especially if you can provide a guarantor."
"•　Use a Guarantor Company: If you’re a foreigner without a Japanese guarantor, a guarantor company can step in. These companies often charge a fee (usually 1–2% of the annual rent) but can reduce the amount of shōhōkin you need to pay."
"•　Opt for a Shorter Lease Term: If the landlord accepts a one‑year lease instead of a three‑year lease, they may offer more flexibility on upfront fees."
"•　Use the Broker’s Connections: Brokers sometimes have relationships with landlords that allow them to negotiate lower fees. Ask if the broker can bundle or discount."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

"•　Assuming every deposit is refundable: Reikin is never returned."
"•　Failing to read the lease thoroughly: Small print can conceal additional charges, such as a monthly "management fee" (管理費)."
"•　Neglecting the Move‑Out Inspection: If you skip it or refuse to sign the inventory list, the landlord can keep part of the deposit for "damage.""
"•　Not getting receipts: Preserve copies of every receipt, particularly for broker commission and prepaid utilities."
"•　Disregarding the "early‑termination fee" (解約料): If you break the lease early, you’ll likely owe one or two months’ rent."

Tips for a Smooth Move‑In

"•　Have a Japanese-speaking friend or translator present for the lease signing."
"•　Ask the landlord or broker for a "fire insurance" (火災保険) policy requirement. Most landlords require you to have a basic policy that covers damage to the building."
"•　Create a checklist of all costs: rent, shōhōkin, reikin, shikikin, broker commission, utilities, and other fees."
"•　Use a "flat‑fee" rental platform (e.g., SUUMO or LIFULL) that lists all costs upfront."
"•　Ask for a copy of the lease in English if possible. Even a rough translation will help you track the numbers later."

Handling Overcharges

"•　Send a written notice to the landlord or broker, referencing lease clauses that support your claim."
"•　If the broker is a registered firm, you can file a complaint with the "Real Estate Brokerage Association" (不動産仲介業協会)."
"•　Consult a local attorney or a tenant advocacy group (住民団体)."
"•　Post on social media or online forums (such as Reddit Japan or Facebook groups) to share your experience and gather advice from others who’ve faced similar issues."

Quick Reference Table

Fee Type | Average Cost | Refundable?

─────────────────|────────────────────────|─────────────

保証金 (Shōhōkin) | 1–2 months’ rent | Yes

礼金 (Reikin) | 1–2 months’ rent | No

敷金 (Shikikin) | 1 month’s rent | Yes

仲介手数料 (Chūkai) | 1–2 months’ rent | No

管理費 (Kanjih) | Varies (often 5,000–10,000 yen/month) | No

Final Thoughts

Dealing with rental deposits and fees in Japan can appear daunting, especially for those new to the country or unfamiliar with its real estate customs. By knowing the difference between refundable and 名古屋市東区 マンション売却 相談 non‑refundable fees, asking the right questions, and keeping meticulous records, you can avoid the most common pitfalls. Remember that a good landlord will be transparent about how much each fee covers and will want to ensure you’re comfortable with the agreement. With a bit of research and a willingness to negotiate, you’ll be able to secure a great rental property without breaking the bank.