Prevent Disputes When Moving Out of a Rental! Market Rates and Responsibility Rules for Restoration Costs

Restoration to Original Condition Upon Move-Out is the Biggest Rental Dispute

Restoration costs that occur when moving out of a rental property are one of the issues that often become disputes between tenants and landlords. I'm sure some of you have experienced situations like "my security deposit wasn't returned at all" or "I was charged for repairs I had nothing to do with."

There are clear rules regarding the cost burden of restoration to original condition, and by having the correct knowledge, you can avoid unfair charges. In this article, we explain the rules of responsibility based on Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism guidelines, typical fee rates, and specific points to prevent disputes.

What is Restoration to Original Condition?

Definition of Restoration to Original Condition

Restoration to original condition refers to returning the rental property to the condition it was in when the tenant moved in when the tenant moves out. However, this does not mean "returning it to its condition before occupancy completely."

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's "Troubles Regarding Restoration to Original Condition and Guidelines" defines restoration to original condition as follows.

Restoration of wear and damage caused by intentional acts, negligence, breach of duty of care, or use that exceeds normal use by the tenant, from among the decrease in building value resulting from the tenant's occupancy and use

In other words, deterioration due to age and natural wear from normal use are the responsibility of the landlord, and the tenant is only responsible for wear and tear caused by the tenant's intentional acts or negligence.

Age-Related Deterioration and Normal Wear

Age-related deterioration (deterioration that naturally occurs over time) and normal wear (wear that occurs from living normally) are considered to be included in rent and are not the tenant's responsibility.

Examples of Landlord Responsibility (Age-Related Deterioration/Normal Wear)

Examples of Tenant Responsibility (Intentional Acts/Negligence/Breach of Duty of Care)

Market Rates for Restoration Costs

The restoration costs incurred when moving out vary depending on the size of the property and the extent of wear, but typical market rates are as follows.

Main Repair Items and Cost Guidelines

| Item | Cost Guidelines |

|------|--------|

| Wallpaper replacement (one wall) | ¥10,000–¥30,000 |

| Wallpaper replacement (entire room) | ¥50,000–¥150,000 |

| Flooring repair (partial) | ¥10,000–¥30,000 |

| Flooring replacement (one room) | ¥50,000–¥100,000 |

| Cushion flooring replacement | ¥20,000–¥50,000 |

| Tatami mat resurfacing (one mat) | ¥4,000–¥8,000 |

| Sliding door replacement (one door) | ¥3,000–¥5,000 |

| House cleaning (1K–1DK) | ¥20,000–¥40,000 |

| House cleaning (2LDK–3LDK) | ¥40,000–¥80,000 |

| Air conditioner cleaning | ¥10,000–¥20,000 |

| Key replacement | ¥10,000–¥20,000 |

Move-Out Cost Guidelines by Floor Plan

The above are only guidelines, and costs may increase significantly if smoking or pet ownership occurred.

Determining Responsibility Percentage Based on Length of Occupancy

When calculating restoration costs, the length of occupancy (years as a tenant) is also considered. Equipment and interior fittings have useful lives, and the longer the occupancy period, the lower the tenant's share of responsibility.

Typical Useful Life Guidelines

For example, if wallpaper has a useful life of 6 years, if the tenant has occupied the property for 6 years or more, the remaining value of the wallpaper becomes nearly zero, and even if there is wear from intentional acts or negligence, the tenant's responsibility becomes minimal.

However, this is merely the guideline's approach, and in cases of intentional damage or gross negligence, the tenant may be responsible for the full cost regardless of the length of occupancy.

Common Dispute Cases and Countermeasures

Dispute Case 1: Security Deposit Not Returned At All

This is a case where the tenant paid a 2-month security deposit upon moving in, but upon move-out, no deposit is returned because "restoration costs exceed the security deposit."

Countermeasures

Dispute Case 2: Charged for Repairs of Pre-Existing Damage

This is a case where the tenant is charged for repairs to damage or stains that already existed when they moved in.

Countermeasures

Dispute Case 3: Charged Full House Cleaning Cost

This is a case where the tenant is charged a high house cleaning fee despite having cleaned the property normally before moving out.

Countermeasures

Dispute Case 4: High Charges for Cigarette Tar Stains

This is a case where the tenant is charged a high amount for removing wallpaper discoloration or odor from smoking.

Countermeasures

What to Do When Moving Out

To prevent disputes, practice the following when moving out.

Preparation Before Moving Out

Key Points During Move-Out Walkthrough

Key Points Regarding Restoration to Original Condition in Sendai

Disputes regarding restoration to original condition are not uncommon for rental properties in Sendai. Here are key points to know when moving out in Sendai.

Rental Practices in Sendai

In Sendai, properties with a 1–2 month security deposit are standard. In recent years, deposit-free properties are increasing, but in such cases, cleaning fees are almost always charged separately at move-out. Be sure to carefully verify any special provisions regarding move-out costs when signing the contract.

Winter-Specific Issues

Winters in Sendai are severe and condensation occurs easily. If mold develops from neglecting to wipe condensation, the tenant may be charged for repairs as a breach of duty of care. During winter, practice frequent ventilation and wipe away condensation regularly.

Consultation Services

If you have concerns about restoration costs, you can consult the following services.

Conclusion

To prevent disputes over restoration costs, it is important to correctly understand the rules of responsibility based on the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's guidelines and respond appropriately from move-in to move-out. In particular, documenting the property's condition at move-in and refraining from signing hastily during the move-out walkthrough are crucial.

If you have any questions about moving out of a rental property or searching for a room, please feel free to contact エムアセッツ, which is well-versed in Sendai's rental market.