Upon relocating to a Japanese rental unit, 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.
Since the language, terminology, and legal expectations can be very different from what you’re used to, it’s essential to read the contract carefully and know what to watch for.
This guide will help you spot the key points that can make or break your rental experience in Japan.

1. Identify the basic terms.
• The property’s title, location, and unit type (apartment, house, 名古屋市東区 相続不動産 相談 share house).
• The real‑estate agent or landlord’s name who represents the property.
• 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) 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 usually amounts to 1–3 months’ rent and covers damage or unpaid rent. The landlord should provide a receipt and a copy of the deposit slip..
• Key money generally amounts to 1–2 months’ rent, is a one‑time non‑refundable fee. If uneasy about the sum, negotiate beforehand; some landlords may lower or waive it for good tenants..
• Watch for additional "security deposit" terms that might be hidden in the wording. Some contracts use terms like "保証金" (guarantee money) or "敷金" (shikikin). Make sure you know the difference and how it will be handled..

3. Identify 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 responsibility usually equals the entire rent plus a few months’ more. A written guarantee is required..
• 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. Check maintenance responsibilities.
• The contract should specify which repairs are the tenant’s responsibility and which are the landlord’s..
• 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..
• Contracts may have a "property damage" provision that could trigger a penalty if you inadvertently damage fixtures..

5. Utilities and other fees.
• Identify which utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, garbage) are covered by the rent and which are billed separately..
• Some agreements consolidate 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 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..
• Some contracts allow "roommates" (同居人) but require the landlord’s approval..
• Inspect the clauses that explicitly ban "転貸" (subletting) or "転居" (co‑living)..

7. Renewal and termination provisions.
• The contract generally indicates whether renewal is automatic or requires a new agreement..
• Most leases renew yearly, but the landlord may raise 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..
• If you intend to leave before the contract expires, negotiate a "退去料" (move‑out fee) or "退去手数料" (service fee) that may be waived..

8. Rent or contract changes notice.
• The landlord may raise rent only once annually during the renewal period..
• Rent hikes must be documented in the contract or via a formal notice ("賃料改定通知")..
• The contract should include a clause for "賃料改定" (rent adjustment) and the procedure for notifying you..
• If the landlord wants to change the contract terms (e.g., add a pet clause), they must provide written notice..

9. Pet policy.
• Most Japanese apartments prohibit pets. If you own one, confirm the contract explicitly permits 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 issues.
• The contract is typically in Japanese. If you’re not fluent, request a translation or enlist a trusted friend to read it..
• Even with Japanese fluency, read the contract twice, concentrating on ambiguous or legally significant sections..
• Store a copy of the signed contract in Japanese and any translated version you have..

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..
• Check the move‑in date, key transfer process, and property condition (photos, inventory list)..
• Request from the landlord or agent a copy of the building’s fire safety certificate and maintenance logs..
• Ensure you get a receipt for all payments made prior to moving in..
• If in doubt, consult a lawyer or a housing rights organization..

Understanding these key points will help you avoid common pitfalls such as hidden fees, unexpected rent increases, or disputes over deposits..
By reading the contract carefully and asking questions early, you can secure a smooth rental experience in Japan and enjoy your new home with confidence..