"When you arrive into a new home in Japan, the first thing you’ll notice is a multitude of fees that go outside the monthly rent. Even if you’re new to the country, familiarizing yourself with these charges can save you a significant amount of yen and help you avoid typical mistakes. Below is a useful guide to the most common deposits and fees you’ll encounter, how they work, and tips for navigating them like a local."

Grasping the Basics: What Is a Deposit?

"In Japan, the term "deposit" (保証金, shōhōkin) refers to the money you give to your landlord at the start of a lease. Unlike many Western systems where a security deposit is simply a refundable sum, Japanese deposits are structured in a several different ways:"

"•　保証金 (Shōhōkin) – The "security deposit" that is fully refundable if the property is returned in good condition, making it the most common type for private rentals."
"•　礼金 (Reikin) – A "gift" fee paid to the landlord as a gesture of thanks for allowing you to rent. It is not returned and typically equals one or two months’ rent"
"•　敷金 (Shikikin) – A "maintenance deposit" held by the landlord for repairs, used for maintenance. If you leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in, this is also fully refundable, but it is usually smaller than the shōhōkin."
"•　仲介手数料 (Chūkai tesūryō) – The broker’s commission, usually equal to one month’s rent or sometimes two months. Many agencies will require you to pay this upfront."
"•　敷金・礼金・仲介手数料の合計 (Shikikin, Reikin, Chūkai tesūryō no gōkei) – Most lease agreements will list all of these together. Don’t confuse the sum of the fees with the individual components; each has its own rules for refund."

Standard Amounts

"A quick look at typical numbers will help you gauge whether you’re being charged fairly:"

"•　Shōhōkin: 1 to 2 months’ rent"
"•　Reikin: one to two months’ rent, sometimes three months for high‑end properties"
"•　Shikikin: 1 month’s rent (often less than shōhōkin)"
"•　Broker commission: one to two months’ rent"

"If your lease states "保証金＋礼金＋敷金＋仲介手数料" and the total is 4–5 months’ rent, that’s usually standard. Anything higher warrants a closer look, especially if the landlord is in a hurry to fill the unit."

Verifying the Refund Process

"Because the shōhōkin and shikikin are refundable, you should confirm how the refund will be handled:"

"•　Verify the lease includes a "退去時の返金手続き" (refund procedure at move‑out)."
"•　Ask whether the refund will be paid in a single lump sum or in installments."
"•　Confirm that the landlord agrees to a fair and documented "damage assessment"."
"•　Obtain a receipt or inventory list (入居時・退去時の検査表) documenting the rooms and appliances’ condition."

Negotiating Fees

"The Japanese rental market is not a closed shop. There are several ways to negotiate or reduce fees:"

"•　Show Proof of Good Credit and Stable Income: Landlords may reduce or waive reikin if you prove you’re a reliable tenant."
"•　Request a slightly lower Shōhōkin: Some landlords permit 0.5 or 1 month’s rent as a security deposit, particularly if you have a guarantor."
"•　Employ a Guarantor Company: If you’re a foreigner lacking a Japanese guarantor, a guarantor company can step in. These firms typically charge a fee (1–2% of annual rent) but can lower the shōhōkin needed."
"•　Opt for a Shorter Lease Term: If the landlord accepts a one‑year lease instead of a three‑year lease, they may offer more flexibility on upfront fees."
"•　Use the Broker’s Connections: Brokers sometimes have relationships with landlords that allow them to negotiate lower fees. Ask if the broker can bundle or discount."

Common Pitfalls to Steer Clear Of

"•　Believing all deposits are refundable: Reikin is never refunded."
"•　Not Reading the Lease in Detail: Small print can hide extra charges, such as a "management fee" (管理費) that may be added each month."
"•　Avoiding the Move‑Out Inspection: If you skip the inspection or refuse to sign the inventory list, the landlord may retain part of the deposit for damage."
"•　Neglecting to Get a Receipt: Keep a copy of every receipt, especially for the broker commission and any prepaid utilities."
"•　Disregarding the "early‑termination fee" (解約料): If you break the lease early, you’ll likely owe one or two months’ rent."

Tips for a Smooth Move‑In

"•　Bring a Japanese‑speaking friend or hire a translator for the lease signing."
"•　Ask the landlord or broker for a "fire insurance" (火災保険) policy requirement. Most landlords require you to have a basic policy that covers damage to the building."
"•　Make a checklist of what you’re paying for: rent, shōhōkin, reikin, shikikin, broker commission, utilities, and any other fees."
"•　Use a "flat‑fee" rental platform (e.g., SUUMO or LIFULL) that lists all costs upfront."
"•　Ask for a copy of the lease in English if possible. Even a rough translation will help you track the numbers later."

Dealing with Overcharges

"•　Contact the landlord or broker in writing, referencing the lease clauses that support your claim."
"•　If the broker is a registered company, you can file a complaint with the "Real Estate Brokerage Association" (不動産仲介業協会)."
"•　Get legal advice from a local lawyer or a tenant advocacy group (住民団体)."
"•　Post on social media or online forums (such as Reddit Japan or Facebook groups) to share your experience and gather advice from others who’ve faced similar issues."

Quick Reference Table

Fee Category | Standard Amount | Is it refundable?

─────────────────|────────────────────────|─────────────

保証金 (Shōhōkin) | 1–2 months’ rent | Yes

礼金 (Reikin) | 1–2 months’ rent | No

敷金 (Shikikin) | 1 month’s rent | Yes

仲介手数料 (Chūkai) | 1–2 months’ rent | No

管理費 (Kanjih) | Varies (often 5,000–10,000 yen/month) | No

Final Thoughts

Navigating rental deposits and fees in Japan can feel daunting, especially if you’re new to the country or unfamiliar with its real estate practices. By knowing the difference between refundable and non‑refundable fees, 名古屋市東区 ペット可賃貸 相談 asking the right questions, and keeping meticulous records, you can avoid the most common pitfalls. Remember that a good landlord will be transparent about how much each fee covers and will want to ensure you’re comfortable with the agreement. With a bit of research and a willingness to negotiate, you’ll be able to secure a great rental property without breaking the bank.