Real Estate Terms in Tokyo | Mitsui Resident First 

The above is a monthly fee for general building maintenance which includes the cost of shared facilities and administration.

A security payment is made to the landlord. Generally speaking, properties in Tokyo require an amount equivalent to 2 months rent. For luxurious expatriate apartments, 4 to 6 months rent is often required. The deposit is refundable. However, general cleaning and restoration cost are usually deducted from the deposit when tenants leave.

Key money is not refundable. It is often called a "Gift to the owner." This sum, generally equivalent to 2 months rent, is paid to the landlord as part of the initial contract money.

Money to be paid to the landlord upon renewal of the lease contract. The amount is in most cases equivalent to 1 month of rent.

At least one joint guarantor who is financially secured is a must for renting an apartment in Japan. In some cases, if the contract is made by large firms, it is not necessary to find a joint guarantor.

This is a company which will act as a guarantor for a fee. It is necessary to pay an extra fee to the company, such as 50% of the monthly rent, to use this system.

A fixed-term lease contract system was implemented in 2000.
Under the "Fixed term contract", the Lessee loses the right to stay on the Lessor's property when the predetermined lease term expires.
Under conventional leases, lessees retain the right to stay on the lessor's property by renewing the contract.
In some cases, the Lessor and Lessee can reach an agreement on renewing or re-signing the contract by mutual consent.