Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some tips for apartment searching:

• Narrow down your priorities to 3 conditions (e.g., near station, size, rent)
• Set multiple preferred areas
• Viewing on weekday mornings makes it easier to check if the environment is quiet
• Actually walk around the neighborhood to check convenience facilities like supermarkets and convenience stores
• Register for SEIKA's official LINE account to receive new property information first

We accept viewing reservations through the following methods:

• From the "Viewing Reservation" button on the property details page
• Email or phone inquiries

If you can provide us with up to 3 preferred dates and times, we can arrange the viewing smoothly. We also offer online viewings, so please let us know if you're interested.

Online viewing is a service where SEIKA staff guide you through actual properties using video calls via Zoom or LINE. You can check the condition of the room without actually visiting the property.

Features:

• You can check rooms from your home regardless of time or location
• Convenient for those living far away or busy people
• You can ask to see specific areas in detail
• You can efficiently view multiple properties

If you wish to have an online viewing, please let us know when making your reservation.

We recommend checking the following points during viewing:

• Sunlight and ventilation (ideally check both morning and evening)
• Noise levels (trains, roads, neighboring rooms, etc.)
• Water facilities condition (water pressure, drainage)
• Storage space size and usability
• Outlet locations and quantity
• Mobile phone signal strength
• Surrounding environment (supermarkets, convenience stores, hospitals, parks, etc.)
• Commuting/school route confirmation

If SEIKA staff accompany you, please ask any questions you may have.

Yes, SEIKA handles many furnished properties. You can select "Furnished" or "With Appliances" conditions on the property search screen to display relevant properties.

Generally included furniture and appliances:

• Basic furniture like beds, desks, and chairs
• Appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, and washing machines
• Air conditioning and lighting fixtures

The included furniture and appliances vary by property, so please check each property's introduction page or contact us for details.

Generally, the following documents are required for application:

• Identification documents (driver's license, passport, My Number card, etc.)
• Income proof (tax withholding slip, income certificate, recent 3 months' pay stubs, etc.)
• Employment certificate or enrollment certificate
• Guarantor's identification and income proof (may not be required if using a guarantee company)

Foreign nationals also need to submit residence cards and resident certificates in addition to the above. Documents can also be uploaded online. Please contact us if you have any questions.

The general process from application to move-in is as follows:

1. Application: Fill out the application form on our website or at our store
2. Screening: We conduct tenant screening (usually 1-3 business days)
3. Screening Results: After passing screening, we officially secure your room
4. Contract Confirmation: Confirm contract conditions and special clauses
5. Contract & Payment: Sign the contract and pay initial costs
6. Key Handover: We hand over the keys on your move-in date
7. Move-in: Start your new life

SEIKA has introduced an electronic contract system, allowing contract procedures to be completed without visiting our store. We also support credit card payments for initial costs.

If you don't have a guarantor, you can use a guarantee company. SEIKA partners with multiple guarantee companies and provides optimal guarantee plans according to your situation.

General costs when using a guarantee company:

• Initial guarantee fee: 30-100% of rent (varies by property)
• Renewal guarantee fee: About 10-30% of rent every 1-2 years

Even for foreign nationals or students who may find regular guarantee company screening difficult, SEIKA may be able to arrange screening through our unique routes, so please consult with us.

Screening results are usually communicated within 1-3 business days. However, during busy periods (January-March) or before/after holidays, screening may be congested and take 4-5 business days.

Tips for smooth screening:

• Fill out the application form accurately and completely
• Prepare required documents in advance
• Provide easily reachable phone numbers and email addresses

If urgent, please let us know and we'll respond as quickly as possible.

Electronic contract is a method of confirming and signing contracts online rather than using paper contracts. SEIKA has introduced an electronic contract system with the following benefits:

• Contract procedures completed without store visits (saves time and transportation costs)
• No stamp tax required (usually saves several thousand to 10,000 yen depending on rent)
• Contract procedures possible 24 hours a day
• No risk of losing contracts
• Environmentally friendly (paperless)

Electronic contracts have the same legal effect as paper contracts based on the Electronic Signature Law. Procedures are possible from anywhere with a smartphone or computer.

The general breakdown of initial costs is as follows:

• Security deposit: 1-2 months' rent (varies by property)
• Key money: 0-2 months' rent (varies by property)
• Advance rent: Prorated rent for move-in month and next month's rent
• Brokerage fee: 1 month's rent + consumption tax (maximum)
• Fire insurance: About 10,000-20,000 yen (typically 2-year contract)
• Guarantee company fee: 30-100% of rent (if used)
• Key replacement fee: About 10,000-20,000 yen
• 24-hour support fee: About 5,000-10,000 yen (optional)

SEIKA offers many properties with zero security deposit, key money, or brokerage fees. Details for each property can be found on individual property pages.

Security deposit is a deposit for rent arrears or restoration costs. If there are no unpaid amounts or room damage upon move-out, the full amount or the amount minus repair costs will be returned. Generally 1-2 months' rent.

Key money is a gratitude payment to the landlord for renting the property, expressing appreciation. This is not returned. Generally 0-2 months' rent.

Recently, "zero security deposit and key money" properties have increased. SEIKA handles many such properties, so please consult with us if you want to reduce initial costs.

Brokerage fee is a fee for real estate companies supporting your apartment search. The upper limit is legally set at "1 month's rent + consumption tax".

SEIKA also offers the following campaigns:

• Zero brokerage fee campaign
• Half brokerage fee campaign
• Student and new graduate discounts

Campaigns may be limited by period or target properties, so please contact us for the latest information.

SEIKA offers the following payment methods for initial costs:

• Bank transfer: Transfer to designated account
• Credit card payment: Supports VISA, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, Diners

For credit card payments, some card companies allow installment or revolving payments. Please contact our staff for details about payment methods.

※Payment methods may be limited for some properties.

Free rent properties are properties with benefits where rent is free for a certain period (about 1-3 months) during the contract period.

For example, with "1 month free rent," one month's rent is free in a 1-year contract. Application methods include the following patterns:

• First month's rent is free
• Rent at contract completion (12th month, etc.) is free
• Rent is divided by 12 months for monthly rent discount

Free rent benefit conditions vary by property, so please check property detail pages or contact us directly for details.

Yes, move-in dates can basically be adjusted to your preferred schedule. However, please note the following:

• If you wish to move in on weekends, holidays, or during year-end/New Year, please consult with us in advance
• Depending on the previous tenant's move-out situation or restoration work progress, we may not be able to meet your request
• If moving in mid-month, the first month's rent will be prorated
• Key handover is generally during business hours (10:00-19:00)

Move-in dates are confirmed after contract procedures are completed. We recommend arranging moving companies after the move-in date is confirmed.

Key collection methods are as follows:

1. Store collection: Visit our store and receive keys directly from staff. We also provide move-in explanations.
2. On-site collection: Receive keys from staff at the property on move-in day. We also explain room facilities.
3. Smart key compatible properties: Some properties have smart key systems that can be unlocked with smartphone apps.

Identification is required for key collection. If you prefer delivery by courier, prior submission of identification documents and payment of initial costs must be completed.

The following procedures are required upon move-in:

1. Resident registration transfer: Done at the municipal office of your new address (within 14 days)
2. Water, gas, electricity connection procedures: Prior contact with each utility company is required
3. Internet connection contract: Fiber optic connections may take time, so early application is recommended
4. Fire insurance contract: Not required if already enrolled during contract
5. Neighborhood association membership: May be mandatory in some areas

SEIKA provides a "Move-in Day Checklist" for residents. We also support utility setup procedures, so please consult with us if you're anxious about living alone for the first time.

Move-out dates must be notified according to the "cancellation notice period" stated in your rental contract. Generally:

• Most contracts require written notice 1 month before the move-out date
• Some contracts may require notice 2 months in advance
• If notifying after the notice period, you may need to pay rent equivalent for the notice period

Once your move-out intention is decided, please contact the management company or us first. We'll guide you through the formal move-out procedures.

Note that early termination penalties may apply if moving out during the contract period, so please check your contract details.

Restoration costs vary depending on occupancy period and usage conditions. Based on Ministry of Land guidelines, normal wear and tear (aging deterioration) is the landlord's responsibility, but damage or stains due to tenant negligence or fault are the tenant's responsibility.

Common tenant responsibilities:

• Wallpaper stains from cigarette tar, graffiti
• Floor scratches, burn marks
• Equipment damage
• House cleaning fees (if specified in contract)

These costs are deducted from the security deposit, and any remaining amount is returned. If the security deposit is insufficient, additional charges may apply.

To prevent move-out cost troubles, SEIKA records room conditions with a "Move-in Checklist" for comparison during move-out.

If equipment breaks down or malfunctions, please follow these steps:

1. Contact the management company by phone or email
2. Provide detailed information about the malfunction location and situation (photos help us respond quickly if possible)
3. For urgent water leaks, contact the management company's designated 24-hour emergency contact

Types of malfunctions and cost responsibility:

• Landlord responsibility: Malfunctions due to aging, structural defects, etc.
• Tenant responsibility: Malfunctions due to usage negligence, consumable replacements, etc.

If enrolled in 24-hour support service, we respond quickly to key loss and plumbing troubles.

Regular air conditioning maintenance (filter cleaning, etc.) should be performed by tenants themselves. Internal cleaning responsibilities are divided as follows:

• Existing air conditioning (property fixtures): Malfunctions due to aging are the landlord's responsibility. However, malfunctions due to poor cleaning may be the tenant's responsibility.
• Personal air conditioning: Since these are tenant-owned, all cleaning and repairs are the tenant's responsibility.

Regular air conditioning cleaning is important. Filter cleaning should be done at least every 2 months, and professional cleaning is recommended about once a year. Please contact the management company about partner cleaning services.

Garbage disposal methods and sorting rules vary by area. You can check through the following methods:

• Listed in the "Resident Guide" provided at move-in (provided by management company)
• Available on your municipal website
• Municipal garbage collection calendars or booklets may be distributed
• Some apartments may have unique rules (check bulletin boards, etc.)

Not following garbage disposal rules can cause neighborhood troubles, so please check and follow the rules. Contact the management company if you have questions.

Interior renovations or redecorating require prior permission from the management company or landlord. General rules include:

• Allowed without permission: Small furniture placement, poster hanging (with tape that leaves no traces)
• Permission required: Wallpaper replacement, lighting fixture changes, air conditioning installation
• Generally prohibited: Making holes in walls, painting walls or floors, floor plan changes

Restoration to original condition is required upon move-out. We recommend avoiding large-scale renovations in rental properties and using removable methods for redecorating.

Please contact the management company for specific redecorating consultations.

If planning absence for more than 1 month, please take the following measures:

1. Contact management company: Inform them of absence period and emergency contact
2. Utility measures:
   • Water: Close main meter valve (don't close completely in winter to prevent freezing)
   • Gas: Consider closure procedures for long-term absence
   • Electricity: Turn off breakers except for minimum necessities like refrigerator
3. Mail handling: Post office forwarding service or leave keys with someone who can handle mail
4. Security measures: Check all windows and locks, install timer lights, etc.

Rent payments continue during absence. We recommend setting up automatic payments like bank transfers or credit card payments.

Corporate and individual contracts have the following differences:

• Contract name: Corporate contracts are made under the company name
• Screening criteria: For corporations, company performance and financial status are emphasized
• Guarantor: Corporate contracts often require representative's joint guarantee
• Contract period: Corporate contracts typically have longer terms (2-3 years)
• Initial costs: Corporate contracts may have higher security deposits than individual contracts (3-6 months' rent)
• Tax treatment: For corporate contracts, rent and initial costs can be recorded as business expenses

SEIKA has specialized staff for corporate contracts who provide property proposals tailored to company needs.

Corporate contracts generally require the following documents:

• Company registration certificate (issued within 3 months)
• Company financial statements (most recent 1-2 periods)
• Company seal certificate (issued within 3 months)
• Representative's identification (driver's license, passport, etc.)
• Resident's identification (if employees are moving in)
• Company brochure or pamphlet (if available)

For newly established companies, additional documents like business plans or fund certificates may be required. Please contact us for details.

Yes, SEIKA handles many properties suitable for company housing or employee dormitories. We can accommodate the following needs:

• Single employee properties: 1R, 1K, 1DK types
• Family properties: 1LDK, 2LDK, 3LDK types
• Foreign employee properties: Properties with English support
• Multiple unit bulk contracts: Securing multiple rooms in the same building

We provide consulting from property selection to contracts and operations for companies establishing new company housing systems. We also have many furnished properties available for immediate move-in.

Yes, SEIKA also handles office and retail properties. We can introduce the following types of properties:

• Small offices: For startups or small companies (10-30 tsubo)
• Medium offices: For growing companies (30-100 tsubo)
• Retail properties: For restaurants, retail stores, service businesses
• SOHO properties: Properties usable as residence and office
• Shared offices: Spaces shareable by multiple companies

Office and retail properties have different contract conditions from residential properties. Security deposits are typically 6-12 months' rent, and guarantee money or key money may apply. Please contact our corporate contract specialists for details.

Renewal fees and cancellation conditions for corporate contracts are as follows:

• Contract period: Generally 2-3 year fixed-term lease contracts
• Renewal fee: Often 1-2 months' rent required upon contract renewal
• Mid-term cancellation: Notice required according to contract notice period (usually 3-6 months in advance)
• Penalty fee: For mid-term cancellation during contract period, part or all of remaining rent may be charged as penalty

SEIKA can negotiate flexible contract conditions according to company needs. Especially for bulk contracts or long-term contracts, favorable conditions may be possible, so please consult with us.

SEIKA offers the following special services for corporate clients:

• Corporate-exclusive property information: Introduction of premium properties not publicly available
• Interior work coordination: Comprehensive support from office design to construction
• Company housing management service: Proxy management of company housing move-ins/outs and rent management
• Transfer support: Full support from relocation to move-in for transferred employees
• Corporate contract bulk management system: Centralized management of multiple property contracts and payments
• Regular maintenance service: Regular property inspections and cleaning services

For bulk contracts or long-term contracts, favorable conditions like brokerage fee discounts or rent negotiations may be possible. Please contact our corporate sales representative for details.

Yes, SEIKA provides support for foreign companies and companies not yet incorporated in Japan. We can handle the following cases:

• Temporary offices before establishing Japan branch
• Housing for foreign company expatriates
• Employee dormitories for foreign companies
• Stores for inbound businesses

Foreign companies may require higher security deposits (6-12 months' rent) or advance rent payments. If Japanese guarantee companies cannot be used, parent company guarantees or bank guarantees from home countries may be required.

SEIKA has English and Chinese-speaking staff providing comprehensive language support. We also partner with guarantee companies specializing in foreign companies, so please feel free to consult with us.

SEIKA's business hours are as follows:

• Weekdays, weekends, and holidays: 10:00-19:00
• Closed: Year-end/New Year (12/30-1/3), Golden Week, Obon period

During busy periods (January-March), we may operate without holidays. Please check our website for the latest business calendar.

Online viewing process:

1. Select your desired property and mention "online viewing request"
2. We'll coordinate viewing dates (usually within 2-3 days of application)
3. Conduct viewing via Zoom or LINE video call
4. Staff will guide you through the property and answer your questions

Electronic contract process:

1. After application submission and passing screening, you'll receive electronic contract guidance email
2. Access the dedicated page via email link and confirm contract details
3. Complete electronic signature to finalize contract
4. We'll guide you through initial cost payment methods

Both services are easily accessible with smartphones or computers. We provide careful guidance for first-time users, so please feel confident.

Yes, SEIKA handles many properties for foreign nationals. You can rent rooms if you meet the following conditions:

• Hold a valid residence card
• Have stable income (or sufficient fund proof)
• Can communicate in Japanese (or have support from someone who can)

SEIKA features:

• English-speaking staff available
• Multilingual contract support (English, Chinese, Korean, etc.)
• Partnership with foreign-specialized guarantee companies
• Support for overseas contract procedures

Guarantee company screening criteria may differ for foreign nationals. Please contact us for details.

Yes, SEIKA handles pet-friendly and pet-negotiable properties. Select "Pet-friendly" conditions on the property search screen to display relevant properties.

Types of pet-friendly properties:

• Small dogs allowed: Only small dogs (under 10kg) permitted
• Cats allowed: Only cats permitted
• Pet negotiable: Pet keeping possible under certain conditions (restrictions on type and number may apply)

Pet-friendly properties typically have the following conditions:

• Increased security deposit for pet keeping (usually 1-2 times normal amount)
• House cleaning fee responsibility upon move-out
• Pet registration fees or monthly pet keeping fees may be required

If you inform us in advance about your pet's type, size, and number, we can guide you to appropriate properties.

Yes, SEIKA provides life support services to help you start your new life smoothly (※Additional fees apply):

• Resident registration support: Support with address registration and My Number card updates at city hall
• Mobile phone contract support: Guidance and accompaniment for domestic mobile carrier contracts
• Bank account opening support: Support with opening accounts at major banks (document verification and accompaniment)
• Living guide information: Provide useful daily life information such as public transportation usage and shopping areas

Experienced staff provide careful support so that even those starting life in Japan for the first time can use our services with confidence. Please inquire when applying if interested.