SERVICE GUIDE
Steps involved using Tokyo Forent
STEP1
Search Properties
First, search for properties by entering your preferences in the Property Search.
You can narrow down your search by region, floor plan, rent, and other details.
From the search results, view photos and other detailed information about the property what you are interested in.
STEP2
Contact us
Once you have an idea of the property you are looking for, please contact us using our contact form.
It is helpful if you include the property number you saw in your inquiry.
We will also be happy to introduce you to other properties that match your requirements according to your inquiry.
STEP3
Viewing
A Tokyo Forent agent will contact you by email or phone to schedule a viewing.
Please feel free to ask your agent any questions or concerns you may have after viewing the property in person.
(No prior visits are available for short-term contracts.)
STEP4
Contract procedure
If you like the property, we will proceed with the contract process.
Your agent will carefully explain the details of the contract, required documents, and the contract process.
STEP5
Moving into the house
Once the contract is completed and the keys are handed over, you can start your new life in Tokyo.
Tokyo Forent staff will do their best to help non-Japanese residents start their life in Tokyo with peace of mind.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or problems you may have.
Japanese Rent Property Guide
This page explains basic rules and terms related to
rental properties in Japan.
You can also use our chatbot to search for terms.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
What you need to know before signing a contract
Rental fee
The amount of money paid each month to rent a property. This amount varies depending on the size, location, and facilities of the property.
Body Corporate Fees
Fees for maintenance and cleaning of common areas of the property, garbage collection, etc. Usually paid with the monthly rent.
Security deposit
This is the security deposit paid at the time of signing the rental contract. It is usually equivalent to one to two months' rent. If there is no damage to the property when you move out, the security deposit will be returned in full or in part.
Key money
This is the amount paid as a "thank you" to the property owner. This is also usually equivalent to one or two months' rent and is not refundable.
Bondsman
This is a person who assumes responsibility for paying rent on behalf of the tenant in the event that the tenant is unable to pay it. For non-Japanese, it may be difficult to find a guarantor, in which case a guarantor company may be used.
Intermediation fee
This is a commission paid to the real estate agency. It is paid only once when signing a new contract and is generally equivalent to about one month's rent.
Fire insurance
Fire insurance is mandatory for many rental properties. This insurance often covers not only fire, but also water leaks and theft.
Contract period
The length of the rental contract; two years is the most common, but some properties and owners may offer contracts for one year or longer.
What you need to understand when signing a contract
Rental agreement
This is a contract between the tenant and the owner. The contract will specify the rent, contract term, renewal fee, security deposit and key money, and other terms and conditions.
Renewal fee
This is the fee paid when the contract expires and the contract is renewed. The fee is generally equivalent to about one month's rent.
Agreement
An official document between the renter and owner that contains the agreement regarding the use of the property.
The contractor signs and affixes his/her seal to this document after having thoroughly understood and agreed to its contents.
Rules and Regulations
Rules and regulations to be followed within a property or building. For example, this includes garbage disposal days, rules for the use of common areas, whether or not pets are allowed, etc.
How to pay rent
Rent is usually paid on a certain date each month via bank transfer. The payment method and date are stated in the contract.
(In the case of short-term contracts, the entire contract amount must be paid in advance.)
Intermediation fee
This is a commission paid to the real estate agency. It is paid only once when signing a new contract and is generally equivalent to about one month's rent.
Restoration of original state
At the end of the contract, the property must be returned to the original condition in which it was rented. This includes replacing the wallpaper and repairing the flooring. As a rule, these costs are deducted from the security deposit.
Notice of termination of contract
If you want to terminate the contract, you must usually give the owner at least one month's notice.
Termination after the notice period may result in a penalty fee.
Cleaning fee
When moving out, the room must be cleaned. In principle, the renter is responsible for this cleaning fee. The cleaning fee may be deducted from the security deposit.
What to do when moving in
Electricity, gas and water contracts
Immediately after moving in, contact the utility companies for electricity, gas, and water to start using the service. Usually, this can be done by phone or via the Internet.
Internet Contracts
If you need an Internet connection, you will need to sign a contract with a provider. Some properties may already have internet available.
Transfer of resident registration
Within 14 days of moving in, go to the municipal office of your new address to complete the transfer of residence procedures.
Confirmation of garbage disposal rules
Rules for garbage disposal in Japan vary from region to region. Check your local government's website or a notice from the management company of your rental property to ensure that you dispose of garbage correctly.