Japan » Rental Market

To sign a contract and move into a private rental will normally cost the equivalent of four months' rent in advance. Move-in costs can be quite expensive and are described below.

Private rentals range from $1000 to $2000 a month. All payments are made in yen, the currency in Japan, and there are no draft checking accounts in Japan for individuals. The first month's rent is paid in advance and the landlord/agent records it in a rent book (provided by the Housing Welcome Centre) which he signs, stamps, and returns to you. The booklet shows on which date of the month each successive rental payment is due and the amount of security deposit.

Generally, rent can be paid to the house agent/owner directly by visiting the agent's office (yen only), opening an account at the Navy Exchange and pay in dollars or by check, or by an automatic transfer of funds from a Japanese bank account. A bank account is a convenient way to transfer rent directly to the owner's bank account on a certain date of every month. You can go directly to the bank to transfer the money, and some banks issue a convenience card to transfer rent directly to the house agent or owner's account. There is no handling fee when making payment at the Navy Exchange but you may be required to pay one when using the Japanese bank transfer system. The Navy Exchange cashier window can electronically transfer funds to your house agent's or owner's account, but be aware that processing time is approximately three business days. Please confirm how to pay the rent with the owner/agent when you are preparing to sign your lease.

Security Deposit

Almost all landlords require a security deposit which is normally a sum equal to one month's rent. If you have a pet/s, you may be required to pay an additional sum equal to one month's rent. Upon termination of the rental contract, this amount is refunded minus any damages and/or outstanding bills. Payment of these charges will be deducted from the security deposit. Make certain that the amount of security deposit, date, etc., is entered in your payment book. Remember, before moving in, carefully check the house for damages. If there are damages, the real estate agent should confirm and document them. This helps to avoid problems related to refunding the security deposit.