Rental guide
Good questions come before a good move.
A practical starting point for comparing homes in Japan. Check the actual property, provider and agreement for your situation.
01 / Budget
Compare the whole cost.
Ask for an itemized estimate. Keep monthly payments separate from amounts due at move-in and any later charges.
| What to clarify | Questions to take with you |
|---|---|
| Recurring payments | What is included in the quoted rent? Which management, utility or other recurring charges are separate? |
| Move-in payments | Which deposits, fees, insurance or guarantee costs apply to this particular home? When are they due? |
| Later costs | What does the agreement say about renewal, cancellation and move-out charges? |
This checklist does not quote typical prices or determine which charges are required for your contract.
02 / Everyday life
Look beyond the room.
- Compare the route to your regular destinations, including the walk to transport.
- Check nearby shops and the places you would use in daily life.
- Ask about building rules, bicycle storage, waste collection and shared spaces.
- During a viewing, look at light, ventilation, storage, condition and the surroundings.
- Record unanswered questions instead of relying on a photograph or floor plan alone.
03 / Before signing
Get the details in writing.
Read the actual agreement and ask for clarification of terms you do not understand. Keep the documents and written answers for later reference.
- Confirm the contract period and what happens when it ends.
- Clarify who manages repairs and how to report a problem.
- Ask which household, pet or other use restrictions apply.
- Check notice requirements and the agreed move-out process.
- Confirm what documents the provider needs and which organization receives them.
For a specific dispute or legal question, use an appropriate qualified adviser or official consultation service.
Continue with primary sources
Official information to read next.
Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism publishes rental housing resources, including an apartment search guidebook for foreign residents.
MLIT rental housing resources →External official resource. Language options and documents are listed on the source page. Chintai is not affiliated with MLIT.