"Reikin" (key money) is a customary gratuity paid in a lump sum to the landlord at the time of contract, typically ranging from one to two months' rent. It is not returned upon move-out. Recently, more properties are offering "zero key money" options, especially in major cities like Tokyo. However, this may affect other terms of the lease. Konyo can help you find properties with zero or reduced key money to fit your budget.

Please pay close attention to the following points: 1. Scope of restoration upon move-out: While Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism guidelines state that wear and tear from normal use is the landlord's responsibility, be wary of clauses that shift these costs to the tenant. 2. Penalties for early termination. 3. Presence and amount of renewal fees. 4. Prohibited activities (pets, musical instruments, subletting, etc.). 5. Ownership of equipment and repair responsibilities. Since reading contracts in a foreign language has its limits, Konyo explains each clause one by one before you sign, ensuring you fully understand everything.

For properties with a standard lease (renewed every two years), a renewal fee may be charged, typically equivalent to one month's rent. Additionally, some guarantee companies may charge an annual renewal fee. For fixed-term leases, if you wish to continue living in the property after the term expires, you must sign a new contract, which may involve paying initial costs again. Please be sure to check the renewal clauses before signing your contract.

In addition to rent, common monthly fixed costs include management or common service fees (for the maintenance of shared areas, typically ranging from several thousand to 10,000 yen), annual guarantee company fees (sometimes billed monthly), and utility costs for water, electricity, and gas (contracted individually with each provider). Some properties include management fees in the rent, so please be sure to check the breakdown of costs before signing your contract.

In Japan, fire insurance is effectively mandatory for residential rentals, and almost all landlords and management companies require it as a condition of the contract. The annual premium is typically around 15,000 to 20,000 yen. While real estate agents may recommend specific plans, you are not legally obligated to choose the agent's preferred provider; you may select your own as long as the coverage meets the landlord's requirements. Konyo provides a fire insurance enrollment service and can handle everything from verifying coverage to completing the application.

There are two main types of residential rental contracts in Japan. A standard lease agreement is usually for two years and can be renewed upon expiration. A fixed-term lease agreement has a set duration with no automatic renewal, and mid-term cancellation is often strictly restricted. For standard leases, you are usually required to provide written notice 1–2 months in advance if you wish to cancel mid-term. Penalties for early termination vary by property, so we recommend confirming these details and keeping a record before signing.

In Japan, initial rental costs are typically paid in a lump sum at the time of contract, and installment plans have not been common under traditional systems. However, some guarantee companies and service providers have recently begun offering installment options for initial costs, which may help reduce your upfront financial burden. Availability depends on the policies of the specific property and management company. Konyo can help you check if installment payment options are available for your chosen property.

The refund amount depends on the condition of the property at move-out and the terms of your contract. According to the MLIT's "Guidelines for Troubleshooting Restoration to Original Condition," costs for wear and tear resulting from normal use (such as wall discoloration, floor wear, or fading from sunlight) are the landlord's responsibility. The tenant is primarily responsible for damage or soiling that exceeds normal use, or damage caused by pets or smoking. If your final statement includes unreasonable deductions, you have the right to contest them based on these guidelines.

If you disagree with the refund amount or the deductions made, we recommend the following steps: 1. Request a detailed written explanation of the cost calculations from the landlord or property management company. 2. Compare the deductions against the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) guidelines to verify their validity. 3. If negotiations fail, consult or file a complaint with your local prefectural real estate business division or consumer affairs center. 4. For significant amounts, consider legal resolution through small claims court (for claims up to 600,000 yen). Konyo can assist you in reviewing your move-out cost statement and challenging unreasonable deductions.

Most residential rental properties in Japan prohibit playing musical instruments indoors due to the potential for noise complaints from neighbors. Properties that allow instruments are rare, often limited to buildings with high soundproofing, and tend to have higher rents. If you wish to play an instrument, please let us know at the time of application. Konyo can help you find a property that meets your needs. In some cases, you may be permitted to install soundproofing equipment with written consent from the landlord. Many people also utilize nearby music studios for practice.

Within 14 days of moving in, you are generally required to complete the following procedures: 1. Change of Address Notification: Register your residence at your local municipal office. This is a legal requirement for foreign residents in Japan. 2. Residence Card Update: Update the address on the back of your residence card at the same time you register your residence. 3. Utility Setup: Contact providers to set up water, electricity, and gas services. Konyo offers a utility setup service to ensure your essential services are ready to use from the day you move in.

In principle, the landlord or management company is responsible for repairs caused by natural wear and tear or manufacturing defects (e.g., water heater failure, clogged drains). Damage caused by improper use by the tenant is the tenant's responsibility. If a facility issue arises, we recommend notifying the management company promptly in writing (such as via email) and keeping a record of the correspondence. If the management company fails to fulfill its repair obligations, you may seek recourse under the relevant provisions of the Act on Land and Building Leases.

The standard minimum lease term for residential rentals is one year, and very few landlords accept stays of less than six months. If you need short-term housing, consider these alternatives: Monthly apartments often include furniture, appliances, and utilities, and have simplified screening processes, making them ideal for temporary stays. Weekly apartments are suitable for very short stays of less than a month. Both tend to have higher monthly costs than standard long-term rentals. Konyo can suggest the best property type for your desired length of stay.

In principle, structural modifications to rental properties—such as drilling holes in walls, changing flooring, or removing partitions—are prohibited. While removable hooks or peelable wallpaper are generally acceptable, we recommend checking your contract beforehand. If specific renovations are necessary, you must obtain written permission from the landlord in advance. Any damage caused by modifications must be restored to its original condition at the tenant's expense upon moving out.

Some properties have restrictions on families with infants or small children due to noise concerns. We recommend prioritizing detached houses or low-rise apartment buildings, which can help minimize noise impact on neighbors and reduce screening risks. When choosing a property, please also check for nearby daycare centers and elementary schools, the safety of school routes, and access to medical facilities. Konyo can suggest property types tailored to your family's needs.

Japanese rental contracts are typically signed by a single primary tenant. Adding a co-tenant who is not a family member without the landlord's written consent may be a breach of contract. If you wish to share a property, please let us know at the time of application so Konyo can negotiate a joint contract or the addition of a co-occupancy notice with the landlord. Please note that shared applications require income verification and residence status information for all occupants, which may take longer than individual applications. We recommend preparing well in advance.

Rental properties in Japan generally fall into two categories. Standard properties (unfurnished) typically include only an air conditioner, water heater, and kitchen fixtures; you will need to provide your own appliances such as a bed, refrigerator, washing machine, and microwave. Furnished properties come with basic furniture and appliances, making them easier to move into, though they tend to have higher rent. Konyo has a dedicated department for furniture and appliances that can assist you with everything from selecting and purchasing to delivering and installing the items you need.

When moving in, it is standard practice to conduct a move-in inspection and complete a checklist to document any existing damage or defects. We recommend carefully inspecting the property on your move-in day, documenting any pre-existing issues with photos and notes, and notifying the management company in writing. If the property's size, facilities, or natural lighting significantly differ from the contract, you may request an explanation or correction from the landlord or management company under the Real Estate Brokerage Act and the Consumer Contract Act. Keeping a record of your initial inspection is essential for future reference.