JapanWill I get my full deposit back when I move out?
Not necessarily — your landlord may deduct reasonable costs for repairs beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning, or unpaid rent, but must provide a detailed itemized statement within one month of contract termination.
What the Law Says
Japanese law does not mandate full deposit return, but strictly regulates deductions and disclosure. The key rule is that landlords must return the deposit promptly and justify any deductions in writing.
Under the Act on Land and Building Leases, when a lease ends, the landlord must return the security deposit (shikikin) after deducting only legitimate expenses — such as unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or necessary cleaning costs to restore the property to its original condition (excluding ordinary deterioration).
The landlord must provide the tenant with a written, itemized statement explaining all deductions. This must be delivered within one month after the lease terminates. Failure to do so may weaken the landlord’s right to claim deductions.
‘Normal wear and tear’ — like faded paint, minor scuffs, or worn carpet from regular use — cannot be charged to the tenant. Only damage caused by negligence, misuse, or breach of contract is recoverable.
Statutory TextThe lessor shall, without delay, return the security deposit to the lessee upon termination of the lease contract, after deducting any amount equivalent to damages for non-performance of obligations or other amounts due from the lessee.
— Act on Land and Building Leases, s. 39 — Return of Security Deposit
Statutory TextThe lessor shall, within one month from the date of termination of the lease contract, notify the lessee in writing of the details of any deduction made from the security deposit.
— Act on Land and Building Leases, s. 40 — Notification of Deductions
What to Do
Take dated photos/video of the apartment’s condition before moving in and out.
Request a joint inspection with your landlord at move-out and ask for written confirmation of its condition.
Within one month after moving out, check if you received an itemized written statement of any deposit deductions.
If the statement is missing, unclear, or includes charges for normal wear, you may request clarification or repayment — ideally in writing.
If unresolved, consult a local consumer center (Consumers Life Center) or seek mediation through a Housing Dispute Resolution Center.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.