Hello! This is Willow Inc., here to support your new life in Japan—including the one you share with your pets.
Are you thinking, “I want to live with the beloved dog or cat I brought from my home country,” or perhaps, “I want to welcome a new furry friend into my family in Japan”?
Unfortunately, finding a place to live with a pet as a foreigner in Japan is not always easy. The number of “pet-friendly” properties is already low, and when you add the condition of being “foreigner-friendly,” you can be faced with the harsh reality of having almost no options left.
But it’s too soon to give up!
In this article, we, as experts in real estate for foreigners, will explain everything you need to know to live happily in Japan with your precious family member. We’ll cover everything from the reasons why pet-friendly properties are so scarce, to tips for finding one and important points to check during the contract phase.
Why Are So Many Rental Properties in Japan “Not Pet-Friendly”?
First, let’s understand why the default for most rental properties in Japan is “No Pets Allowed.” There are generally three main reasons:
- Concerns about Damage, Stains, and Odors: Landlords worry about things like scratches on the walls and floors, or pet-specific smells remaining in the room.
- Noise Issues: They are concerned that barking or other noises could become a source of trouble with other residents in the building.
- Allergy Concerns: They take into consideration the possibility that the next tenant to live in the room may have animal allergies.
For these reasons, stricter screening processes and special conditions are typically required for moving in with a pet in Japan.
Watch Out! The Difference Between “Pet-Friendly” and “Pets Negotiable”
When searching for properties, you will come across these two terms. They sound similar, but there is a big difference.
- Pet-Friendly (ペット可 – Pet-ka): These are properties where keeping a pet is generally permitted. However, there are almost always rules regarding the type and number of pets, such as “one small dog only” or “cats not allowed.”
- Pets Negotiable (ペット相談可 – Pet-soudan-ka): This is a property with a “let’s discuss it first” stance. You will need to tell the landlord about the type, size, and training of your pet, and they will make a decision on a case-by-case basis. Permission is not guaranteed.
[Important] Special Contract Conditions for Living with Pets
When you sign a contract for a pet-friendly property, the following special conditions are often added to the standard agreement:
- An Extra Month’s Security Deposit (敷金プラス1ヶ月分 – Shikikin plus ikkagetsubun): This is the most common condition. You will be required to pay an additional month’s rent as a security deposit to cover the costs of cleaning and repairs when you move out.
- Restrictions on Pet Type and Size: As mentioned before, there are almost always strict limitations, such as “small dogs under 10kg only.”
- Submission of Vaccination Certificates: You may be asked to provide proof that your pet has received all its required vaccinations, such as for rabies.
Willow is Here to Support a Happy Life for You and Your Pet
“There are so few properties, and the conditions are so strict…” You might be feeling anxious after reading this. But don’t worry.
At Willow, we are deeply familiar with these tough realities of the Japanese real estate market. That’s why we specialize in properties that are safe for foreign nationals to rent, even with their precious pets.
The problem of not having a guarantor is, of course, something we can solve. We will properly convey your wonderful personality—and the fact that your pet is an important member of your family—to the landlord.
We promise to do everything in our power to ensure that your story in Japan begins in the best possible way, together with your beloved pet.
Why not make your dream of living with your pet in Japan a reality with us? First, feel free to tell us about your family (your pet) and your ideal room on LINE.
For consultations about finding a pet-friendly home, LINE is the smoothest way!
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