When reviewing initial costs or contract terms for a rental property in Japan, you may see words such as “shokyaku” or “shikibiki.”
In many cases, these terms mean that part or all of the security deposit or guarantee deposit will not be returned when you move out. If you miss this point, the refund at move-out may be much smaller than expected.
What is shokyaku?
In rental contracts, shokyaku is often used as a condition that a certain amount of the deposit will be non-refundable.
For example, if the listing says “deposit: 1 month, depreciation: 1 month,” you should assume that the one-month deposit will not come back at move-out.
It is similar to key money in that it is not refunded, but it may be shown together with the deposit, so it is easy to misunderstand.
What is shikibiki?
Shikibiki means that a fixed amount is deducted from the deposit or guarantee deposit before any refund is made.
If a contract says “guarantee deposit: 2 months, shikibiki: 1 month,” the potential refund is basically the amount left after that deduction.
Usage can differ by region and property, so always check the actual contract wording.
Treat it separately from restoration costs
The important point is that shokyaku or shikibiki may be separate from cleaning fees and restoration costs.
Having a depreciation clause does not always mean you will owe nothing at move-out. Damage caused by negligence or use beyond normal wear may still be charged separately.
At the same time, normal aging and ordinary wear are not automatically the tenant’s responsibility. Japan’s restoration guideline treats restoration as different from returning the room to exactly its original condition.
What to check before signing
Before applying or during the important matters explanation, confirm the amount of the depreciation or deduction, whether it is non-refundable, whether cleaning or restoration costs are charged separately, and whether the rule changes for short-term cancellation.
If you assume the deposit will simply come back, be careful. With these clauses, the full deposit may not be refundable.
Be careful when the amount is large
A depreciation or shikibiki clause may be treated as valid when it is clearly written in the contract.
However, if the amount seems extremely high, the explanation is unclear, or the purpose of the charge is hard to understand, it can become a dispute. Ask questions before signing and consult a consumer affairs center if needed.
Summary
Shokyaku and shikibiki often refer to the non-refundable part of a deposit or guarantee deposit.
Compare properties by looking not only at initial costs but also at how much money may come back when you move out. Separate refundable money from non-refundable money before signing.