FAQ
About Property
- Q1
- How safe are high-rise buildings?
- High-rise buildings are built following strict regulations. There are 3 major types of structures.
- Reinforced structure: The structure of the building itself is reinforced to withstand the shock of an earthquake
- Base Isolation Structure: An interposing layer between the structure and foundation. The interposing layer does not absorb the shock but deflects the shock through the dynamics of the system.
- Vibration damping: There are two types of damping. 1.Passive which is internal, takes the energy from the earthquake and dissipates within the structure by add-on damping devices such as isolators, structural joints or supports. 2.Active damping which is external, takes the energy and dissipates it through controlled actuators.
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- Q2
- Are BBQ’s allowed on the balcony?
- Most apartment building do not allow BBQ’s as it can be a potential fire hazard in a small concentrated area. Individual houses generally do not have restrictions but it is always necessary to be considerate of your surroundings and neighbors.
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- Q3
- Do air-conditioners both heat and cool?
- Air-conditioners in Japan serve both as a cooler and a heater. Some newer systems have dehumidifiers, fans and even air cleaning functions. During the summer, use a fan to circulate the air and turn the temperature setting down a degree. This will cut down on the bill. In the winter time, using a portable heater can help to cut down on utility bills.
It is also recommended to hang curtains as they keep the air from escaping through the windows. Kerosene heaters are prohibited as they can be a fire hazard.
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- Q4
- How much are utilities?
- For family sized, large properties, a rough estimate would be approximately 10-15 percent of the monthly rent. To cut costs it is recommended to turn off individual systems and actually more economic to leave central systems on. Central systems require a large surge of electricity to start up once they have been turned on. Utilizing the timer function is also a good way to cut down on electricity bills especially during peak seasons. Check the utility companies web pages for detailed explanations and rates.
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- Q5
- How do I get English T.V.?
- English T. V. is very limited in Japan. Local channels do have some news and movies that are dubbed in English. For a wider variety of choices, it is recommended to have a satellite dish or cable service installed. Consult with your sales representative regarding installation fees, monthly fees, and the position of the building as some buildings may not be facing the right direction or are blocked by other buildings.
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- Q6
- How do I get internet access?
- High-speed internet services are becoming more and more common in Japan. Newer buildings have internet connection but you will need to put in an application form to start the service. Most apartments and houses can be installed with fiber optic, cable or ADSL lines. If the property does not have internet connection, you will need to have it installed but will need to make sure that the structure is not affected. You may need to obtain permission from the owner. Once you have put in an application, the entire process may take up to 3-5 weeks.
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- Q7
- Are there lots of properties that allow pets?
- The number of properties that allow pets is increasing but are still limited. There are quite a few properties that do not allow large dogs. There are some exceptions made for small dogs that can be carried in your arms or in a carrying case in the common areas and on the elevator. Ken Corporation does have many properties that do allow pets. Please consult with your sales representative for more information and check with quarantine and what needs to be done to bring your pet with you.
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- Q8
- Are pianos and other musical instruments allowed?
- Some properties do not allow pianos or other musical instruments. Properties that do, often have strict time schedules that must be followed. Grand pianos are a bit more difficult as they are heavy so you will need to make the floor can withstand the weight.
Be sure to take measurements of the door as the piano may not fit.
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- Q9
- What is a mechanical car park system?
- To utilize space many apartments have an automated parking system that is constructed underneath the building. A palette is used to rotate the car and each car is stored on individual lifts. Some mechanical car parks do have restrictions as far as size and height. When purchasing a car, make sure to do a test drive as the measurements in the catalogue and the actual size of the car may be different.
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- Q10
- Do household appliances come with the property?
- Most properties do not come with household appliances and are unfurnished. This also depends on the size and type of apartment.
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- Q11
- What is a wash-let?
- A very high tech toilet seat which has a shower, bidet and drying function. The seat can also be warmed during the winter. Some wash-lets have an automated function and the lid will open when you approach the toilet. Some bathrooms do not have a wash-let depending on the layout of the bathroom and in some cases can not be installed. There are regulations for waterproofing the electrical wiring in the bathroom area for safety reasons.
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- Q12
- Where can I park my scooter/bicycle
- Traveling by scooter and bicycle is a part of everyday life. Not all apartments have designated space. Parking spaces for bicycles and scooter are leased under strict guidelines. If the apartment does not have parking space, do not park on the street as you may be fined or the scooter/bicycle will be taken away.
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