Essential Tips for Japanese Housing Contracts > 자유게시판

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When you move into a Japanese rental property, 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.
Below is a practical guide to help you spot the key points that can make or break your rental experience in Japan.

1. Pinpoint the basic terms.
• The property’s title, location, and unit type (apartment, house, share house).
• The name of the landlord or the real‑estate agency that represents the landlord.
• The contract period, which is usually 1 or 2 years, and the start and end dates.
• The rent per month and the payment deadline (usually the 10th).
• If the unit is furnished or unfurnished..
• The deposit (shikikin) and key money (reikin) figures. The deposit is refundable; key money is non‑refundable and serves as a goodwill gift to the landlord..

2. Understand the deposit and key money.
• The deposit usually amounts to 1–3 months’ rent and covers damage or unpaid rent. The landlord should provide 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..
• Be alert for extra "security deposit" clauses that may be concealed in the wording. Some contracts use "保証金" (guarantee money) or "敷金" (shikikin). Ensure you understand the distinction and handling..

3. Know the guarantor or guaranty company.
• Japanese leases frequently require a guarantor (guarantee person) or a guaranty company (e.g., Aoyama Gakuin, M&A, or a local bank)..
• The guarantor’s liability is usually equal to the full rent plus a few months’ extra. They must provide a written guarantee..
• When employing a guaranty company, note that they levy a fee (commonly 10% of the yearly 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. Identify maintenance responsibilities.
• The agreement should detail which repairs the tenant must handle and which the landlord covers..
• It is common for tenants to handle small plumbing or electrical repairs..
• For major repairs (such as structural damage), the landlord should take responsibility..
• Contracts may have a "property damage" provision that could trigger a penalty if you inadvertently damage fixtures..

5. Utilities and extra charges.
• 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 watch for any "parking fee" or "storage fee" if the unit provides parking or storage..

6. Subletting and guest policy.
• Most Japanese contracts prohibit subletting without written permission from the landlord..
• Should you intend a long‑term guest or roommate, discuss it beforehand..
• Certain agreements permit "roommates" (同居人) only with landlord approval..
• Look for wording that outright prohibits "転貸" (subletting) or "転居" (moving in together)..

7. Renewal and termination clauses.
• The agreement typically specifies if renewal is automatic or needs a new contract..
• Most leases can be renewed annually, but the landlord may increase the rent..
• Early termination usually requires 1–3 months’ notice (commonly 60 days)..
• The agreement may impose a penalty for early termination, like forfeiting the deposit or paying part of the remaining rent..
• Should you move early, negotiate a "退去料" (move‑out fee) or "退去手数料" (service fee) that could be waived..

8. Notice of rent adjustments or contract changes.
• Rent increases are permissible only once per year during renewal..
• Any rent increase must appear in the contract or 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), 名古屋市東区 相続不動産 相談 written notice is required..

9. Pet rules.
• Many Japanese apartments ban pets. If you have one, ensure the contract explicitly allows it..
• Some landlords ask for 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 generally in Japanese. If you’re not fluent, obtain a translation or have a trusted friend review it..
• Even if you understand Japanese, read the contract twice, focusing on areas that are ambiguous or have legal implications..
• Keep a copy of the signed contract in both Japanese and any translated version you may 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..
• Verify the move‑in date, key handover procedure, and property condition (photos, inventory)..
• Request from the landlord or agent a copy of the building’s fire safety certificate and maintenance logs..
• 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..

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..