Understanding Japanese Rental Contracts: What to Watch For > 자유게시판

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Once you settle into a Japanese rental home, 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.
Since the language, terminology, and legal expectations can be very different from what you’re used 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. Identify the basic terms.
• The name of the property, its address, and the type of unit (apartment, house, share house).
• The real‑estate agent or landlord’s name who represents the property.
• The contract length (typically 1 or 2 years) and its start and finish dates.
• The monthly rent amount and the due date (often the 10th of each month).
• Whether the property is furnished or not..
• 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 is typically 1–3 months’ rent. It is meant to cover damage or unpaid rent. The landlord should give you a receipt and a copy of the deposit slip..
• Key money typically equals 1–2 months’ rent, is paid once and not refunded. If concerned, negotiate early; some landlords may accept a reduced key money or waive it for reliable 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, a guarantor (guarantee person) or a guaranty company (such as Aoyama Gakuin, M&A, or a local bank) is often required..
• The guarantor typically must cover the full rent plus several months’ extra. They must submit a written guarantee..
• If you use a guaranty company, be aware that they charge a fee (often 10% of the annual rent)..
• Verify the contract for guarantor conditions, especially if the guarantor can be released after a certain period or if the guarantee auto‑renews..

4. Check maintenance responsibilities.
• The contract must delineate which repairs fall to the tenant and which to the landlord..
• Tenants typically manage minor plumbing or electrical fixes..
• For major repairs (such as structural damage), the landlord should take responsibility..
• Some contracts include a clause for "property damage" that might impose a penalty if you accidentally damage fixtures..

5. Utilities and additional fees.
• Determine which utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash) are bundled in the rent and which cost separately..
• Some contracts bundle 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 note any "parking fee" or "storage fee" if the property includes a parking spot or storage closet..

6. Subletting and guests.
• Most Japanese contracts forbid subletting without the landlord’s written consent..
• If you foresee a long‑term guest or roommate, 名古屋市東区 マンション売却 相談 negotiate ahead of time..
• Some contracts allow "roommates" (同居人) but require the landlord’s approval..
• Look for wording that outright prohibits "転貸" (subletting) or "転居" (moving in together)..

7. Renewal and termination clauses.
• 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. Notice of changes in rent or contract terms.
• The landlord can increase rent only once a year during the renewal period..
• Any rent increase must appear in the contract or a formal notice ("賃料改定通知")..
• The agreement should contain a "賃料改定" clause and the notification procedure..
• If the landlord intends to modify terms (e.g., insert a pet clause), they must give written notice..

9. Pet regulations.
• Most Japanese apartments prohibit pets. If you own one, confirm the contract explicitly permits 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.
• Contracts are usually written in Japanese. If you’re not fluent, ask for a translation or have a trusted friend read it..
• Even with Japanese fluency, read the contract twice, concentrating on ambiguous or legally significant sections..
• Store a copy of the signed contract in Japanese and any translated version you have..

11. Final checklist prior to signing.
• 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..
• Ensure you get a receipt for all payments made prior to moving in..
• If you have doubts, consult a legal professional or a housing rights organization..

By grasping these key points, you can avoid common pitfalls such as hidden fees, unexpected rent rises, or deposit conflicts.
By reading the contract carefully and asking questions early, you can secure a smooth rental experience in Japan and enjoy your new home with confidence..