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 name of the landlord or the real‑estate agency that represents the landlord.
• The lease duration (normally 1 or 2 years) along with start and end dates.
• The monthly rent amount and the due date (often the 10th of each month).
• 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. Comprehend the deposit and key money.
• The deposit generally equals 1–3 months’ rent, covering damage or unpaid rent. The landlord ought to issue a receipt and a copy of the deposit slip..
• Key money is usually 1–2 months’ rent. It is a one‑time payment and is not returned. If you are worried about the amount, negotiate in advance; some landlords will accept a smaller key money or waive it for good 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. Look for 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.
• Clarify which utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash collection) are included in the rent and which are separate..
• Some contracts bundle utilities into a "maintenance fee" (管理費) or a "common area fee.".
• If separate gas and electricity meters exist, the contract may state you pay each individually..
• Also watch for any "parking fee" or "storage fee" if the unit provides parking or storage..

6. Subletting and visitors.
• The majority of Japanese leases ban subletting unless written permission is obtained..
• Should you intend a long‑term guest or roommate, discuss it beforehand..
• Certain agreements permit "roommates" (同居人) only with landlord approval..
• Check the wording for clauses that explicitly forbid "転貸" (subletting) or "転居" (moving in with someone else)..

7. Renewal and termination clauses.
• The contract will usually state whether it can be renewed automatically or if renewal requires a new agreement..
• Most leases can be renewed annually, but the landlord may increase the rent..
• If ending early, you usually must 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. Notice of changes in rent or contract terms.
• Rent increases are permissible only once per year during renewal..
• Rent hikes must be documented in the contract or via 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 wants to change the contract terms (e.g., add a pet clause), they must provide written notice..

9. Pet regulations.
• Most Japanese apartments prohibit pets. If you own one, confirm the contract explicitly permits 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 considerations.
• The contract is typically in Japanese. If you’re not fluent, request a translation or enlist a trusted friend to read it..
• Even if you understand Japanese, read the contract twice, paying attention to ambiguous or legally important passages..
• Retain a copy of the signed contract in Japanese and any translated version you possess..

11. Final checklist before 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, 名古屋市東区 マンション売却 相談 the procedure for handing over keys, and the condition of the property (photos, inventory list)..
• Request from the landlord or agent a copy of the building’s fire safety certificate and maintenance logs..
• Make sure you receive a receipt for any payments made before the move‑in date..
• If in doubt, consult a lawyer 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..