Key Things to Notice in Japanese Lease Agreements > 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.
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. Identify the basic terms.
• The name of the property, its address, and the type of unit (apartment, house, 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. Grasp 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..
• Look out for extra "security deposit" provisions that could be disguised. Contracts may use "保証金" (guarantee money) or "敷金" (shikikin). Confirm you grasp the difference and its management..

3. Identify the guarantor or guaranty company.
• In Japan, a guarantor (guarantee person) or a guaranty company (such as Aoyama Gakuin, M&A, or 名古屋市東区 ペット可賃貸 相談 a local bank) is often required..
• The guarantor’s liability is usually equal to the full rent plus a few months’ extra. They must provide a written guarantee..
• If you use a guaranty company, be aware that they charge a fee (often 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. Look for 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..
• Certain agreements contain a "property damage" clause that could levy a penalty for accidental fixture damage..

5. Utilities and extra charges.
• Identify which utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, garbage) are covered by the rent and which are billed 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 note any "parking fee" or "storage fee" if the property includes a parking spot or storage closet..

6. Subletting and guests.
• Most Japanese contracts prohibit subletting without written permission from the landlord..
• If you plan to have a long‑term guest or roommate, discuss this in advance..
• 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 contract generally indicates whether renewal is automatic or requires a new agreement..
• Most leases renew yearly, but the landlord may raise the rent..
• To terminate early, you typically need to give 1–3 months’ notice (often 60 days)..
• The contract may specify a penalty for early termination, such as forfeiting the deposit or paying a portion 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. Rent or contract changes notice.
• The landlord may raise rent only once annually during the renewal period..
• Any rent increase must be written in the contract or a formal notice ("賃料改定通知")..
• The contract must have a "賃料改定" provision and outline how you’ll be notified..
• If the landlord intends to modify terms (e.g., insert a pet clause), they must give written notice..

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

10. Language and translation considerations.
• 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..
• Retain a copy of the signed contract in Japanese and any translated version you possess..

11. Final checklist prior to signing.
• Ensure that every detail discussed (rent, deposit, key money, guarantor, utilities, pet policy) matches 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..
• Verify that you receive a receipt for every payment before the move‑in date..
• If uncertain, seek advice from a legal professional or a housing rights group..

By grasping these key points, you can avoid common pitfalls such as hidden fees, unexpected rent rises, or deposit conflicts.
Careful contract review and early inquiries will guarantee a smooth rental experience in Japan and allow you to enjoy your new home with confidence.