How to Find Housing and Sign a Lease
Reference: Guidebook for Tenants 【Japanese】
https://www.zentaku.or.jp/about/guidebook/
Common Housing Troubles
●Financial Issues
When paying rent (to avoid delays), make sure to clarify whether the payment is due in advance or after, and when exactly the payment must be made.
●Noise Issues
- ・Conversations with your home country, especially considering time differences.
- ・Noise from playing video games
- ・Playing musical instruments
- ・Hosting home parties with friends
※Be mindful of keeping noise levels down, especially at night.
●Pet Issues
Some residences may prohibit or restrict pets. If you plan to have a pet, it’s important to check the residence’s policies on the website or contact the real estate office or landlord directly.
●Garbage Disposal Issues
Garbage disposal rules, including sorting methods, designated places, days, and times for disposal, vary by municipality or building. Be sure to check and follow these guidelines.
●Common Area Issues
Do not leave belongings in shared spaces such as entrances, hallways, or staircases. These areas may also serve as emergency evacuation routes in case of fire or disaster, so avoid placing large items on balconies as well.
Moving-out Procedures
●転居の連絡
When moving out, inform the landlord or real estate agency of your departure within the period specified in your lease agreement (typically 1-2 months prior).
●Cancelling Utility Services
At least 1 week prior to moving, contact your gas, electric, and water company to cancel utility services. On the day of your move, representatives from each company will come to shut off the utilities. You will only be charged for the services used up until that day.
●Phone and Internet Procedures
- ・If you have a landline or cell phone service, be sure to contact your provider to notify them of your move.
- ・Contact your internet provider to inform them of your new address.
●Postal Service Procedures
Apply for mail forwarding at the post office. This service will temporarily redirect any mail sent to your old address to your new one (Only applies for moves within Japan).
●Disposing of Large Rubbish
If you need to dispose of large items like furniture or have a large amount of waste, contact your local municipality office or waste disposal service in advance to confirm the proper disposal method. If the collection date is after your move, consult your landlord or property manager for assistance.
●Moving Your Belongings
- ・Try to complete your move during the day. Moving at night can disturb your neighbors.
- ・Ensure that all your belongings are removed from the room and leave it clean. Make sure no garbage is left behind in the space.
●Returning the Keys and Handover
- ・Return the keys when you hand over the room.
- ・During the handover, a representative from the real estate agency or the landlord will inspect the room to check for any damage or marks you may have caused. They will also assess how much it will cost to return the room to its original condition, as it was when you first moved in.
●Security Deposit Return
When you move out, the security deposit you paid at the time of signing the contract is generally refunded. However, if there is damage to the room, any marks you've caused, or if disposal costs for items left behind are necessary, these expenses will be deducted from the deposit. If the deposit does not cover the full cost, you will be required to pay the difference. If you have any questions or uncertainties, be sure to ask your real estate agent for clarification.
Restoration Costs When Moving Out
【Examples of Costs the Tenant is Responsible For】
- ・Holes, scratches, or stains on the walls caused by the tenant.
- ・Damage or odors caused by keeping pets in the property.
- ・Damage resulting from accidents, such as water leaks or fire, due to your negligence.
【Examples of Costs the Landlord is Responsible For】
- ・Faded wallpaper caused by sunlight exposure.
- ・Indentations in the floor or marks left by furniture placement.
- ・Wear and tear due to the age of the property, such as replacing fixtures or equipment that have reached the end of their lifespan.
