English
Back to knowledge base
InquiryContact an advisorFind a propertyFind
Fees & Key Money

Deposit & Key Money

Deposit & Key Money

A deposit secures obligations such as unpaid rent, with the balance returned after move-out settlement. Key money is normally a non-refundable signing cost.

Sources checked

Separate the deposit from signing costs

A deposit secures obligations such as unpaid rent; the balance is returned after valid deductions. Key money is normally non-refundable. A listing with neither may still have other charges.

For comparison, list the deposit separately from spending such as key money and cleaning charges. Review both the cash needed to sign and the move-out conditions.

Sources[1][2]

Check the basis for move-out deductions

Ordinary wear and aging differ from tenant-caused damage. Review cleaning and fixed-deduction clauses separately; a restoration clause alone does not establish a duty to renovate everything.

Keep move-in photos, move-out records and an itemized settlement. When querying a deduction, identify the charge, the relevant clause and the amount.

Sources[3]

Practical checklist

  • Separate the deposit, key money and cleaning fees, with refund terms.
  • Ask about fixed deductions, amortization and cleaning clauses before signing.
  • Photograph the condition at move-in and review the final settlement.

References

Prepared from official and public sources. Checklists are ELB reading aids; confirm specific application, fee and contract terms with the relevant organization.

  1. MLIT: Restoration questions and answers
  2. MLIT: Private rental housing consultation cases (PDF)
  3. MLIT: Restoration guidelines

Turn the fee guidance into your own budget

Enter the quoted rent, key money and guarantee fees to estimate upfront and monthly costs. Ask an advisor about any charges that are still unclear.

Use the rental cost calculatorAsk an advisor about other questionsSubmit housing requirements
Management Fee / Common Area FeeMonthly common service fee for shared corridor lighting, elevator maintenance, waste disposal, and daily common area upkeep.Key & Lock Cylinder Replacement FeeThe cost of replacing a lock or resetting access controls. Check the quote and contract for whether this is done, the charge and who pays.Consumption tax treatment of Japanese rental costsResidential rent in Japan is generally non-taxable; office and other business rent is generally taxable. Treatment depends on the property’s use and the nature of each charge.