Under the Land and Building Lease Act Art. 32(1), rent increases require changed circumstances: tax changes, property value fluctuation, comparison with nearby rents, or economic condition changes. Tenants have no obligation to agree; until a court confirms the increase, tenants may continue paying the amount they consider reasonable (Art. 32(2)), typically the current rent. If the landlord refuses payment, tenants can deposit at the Legal Affairs Bureau (Civil Code Art. 494). Rent increase disputes require mandatory mediation before litigation (Civil Mediation Act Art. 24-2).
Can Tenants Refuse Rent Increases in Japan? Tenant Rights Explained
Key Takeaways
- ✓Rent increases can be refused without legitimate justification
- ✓Tenants can deposit the previous rent amount if they disagree with the increase
- ✓If agreement cannot be reached, mediation or litigation determines fair rent
- ✓Legitimacy is judged by market rates and economic conditions
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