Q&A Renting about

1.Frequently asked questions when renting real estate in Japan

Q:When is the best time to start searching for a rental property?

A: It is recommended to start searching for a rental property about two months before your planned move-in date. The process of selecting a property can take several days to several weeks, and it can take at least 1-3 weeks from application to move-in. Plan your property search in a timely manner to match your desired move-in date.
Q: How do most people search for rental properties?

A: Portal sites like Suumo and Homes are convenient for searching for rental properties. However, please be aware of some important points when searching for a rental property.
Q: What are the necessary expenses for moving in?

A: The amount required varies depending on the property, but as a rough guide, you should prepare 0 to 1 month's worth of deposit, 0 to 2 months' worth of key money, and 1 month's rent in advance.
Q: What are the criteria for a newly built property?

A: property can be advertised as "newly built" if it is less than one year old after construction and has never been used. Therefore, a building that has been used even if it is less than one year old cannot be considered "newly built."

Q:What documents are required for signing the contract?

A: At the time of application:
1. Identification documents for the applicant (driver's license, my number card)
2. Income certificate for the applicant (withholding slip, tax return)
After approval:
3. Residential certificate for all occupants (issued within the last 3 months and without a My Number) 4.Proof of seal registration for the applicant
5.Initial costs
6.Notification of the account for rent withdrawal

※ Some management companies do not require ④. Please inquire for more details.
Q: Is a guarantor required?

It depends on the property. Some properties require the use of a guarantor company. However, there is a screening process for the guarantor company, and there may be cases where the conditions for the guarantee are attached, or where the guarantor company cannot be used.
Q: When is the rent payment date?

A: It is the day you move in. Please note that it is not necessarily the same as the rental contract date.

Q:How can I renew my contract?

A: For a regular lease contract, it is usually renewed every two years. Normally, as the end of the contract period approaches, the management company will confirm your intention to renew, and renewal documents will be sent if you wish to renew.

For a fixed-term lease contract, there is no renewal because you have already agreed to a specific lease period. Notice of the end of the contract will be sent from the management company or landlord six months before the end of the contract. If both the tenant and the landlord agree, the contract can be renewed, but the cost for renewal will be required.
Q: When should I apply to terminate my lease?

A: If you want to terminate your lease within the contract period due to a transfer, etc., you are required to give advance notice. Please check the "notice period for termination" in your rental contract, which is usually 1-2 months before the termination date. Please note that the notice period begins on the day you notify your landlord, and the exact number of days may vary depending on the contract.