Earthquake Preparedness and Safety for Renters in Japan—A Disaster Preparedness Guide for Foreigners
Japan experiences frequent earthquakes. This guide explains essential disaster preparedness knowledge for foreigners, including earthquake safety measures in rental properties, preparing emergency supplies, and emergency contact and evacuation procedures.
Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries. Because earthquakes of varying magnitudes occur regularly, earthquake preparedness is essential when living in Japan. In particular, for foreigners who have recently arrived in Japan, it can be unclear what to prepare and how. This article explains practical earthquake safety measures you can implement immediately in a rental property, along with basic disaster preparedness knowledge.
Understanding Japan's Earthquakes and Seismic Standards
In 1981, Japan's Building Standards Law underwent significant revision, introducing the new "New Seismic Standard." Buildings constructed after this standard was established are designed to withstand major earthquakes measuring around 6.5 to 7 on the seismic intensity scale without collapsing. When selecting a rental property, it's important to check the age of the building and, if possible, choose one constructed in 1981 (Showa 56) or later—this is a basic step in ensuring safety. Additionally, in 2000, standards for wooden construction joints were strengthened, so wooden buildings constructed from 2000 onward have higher seismic safety.
Reinforced concrete (RC) and steel-frame buildings tend to have higher seismic resistance than wooden structures. However, whether proper seismic design and construction have been implemented cannot be judged by appearance alone. It's effective to ask the real estate company about whether a seismic assessment has been conducted and which seismic standard applies to the building.
Preventing Furniture Collapse Indoors
One of the greatest dangers during an earthquake is furniture collapse. Tall bookcases, dressers, refrigerators, and cabinets can crush occupants if they tip over. Here are furniture stabilization measures you can implement in a rental property:
Furniture stabilization products (such as L-brackets, tension rods, and adhesive anti-tip pads) are available at home improvement stores and 100-yen shops. However, drilling holes in walls can result in restoration to original condition costs when you move out, so confirm this with your building management first. Tension rods and adhesive-type pads can be installed without drilling holes. For more information about restoration to original condition upon move-out, see Restoration to Original Condition and Security Deposit Returns.
In the bedroom, it's important to avoid placing tall furniture or position it so that if it falls, it won't land on the bed. This is because if an earthquake strikes while you're sleeping, you'll have little time to escape. Consider securing televisions, microwaves, and other appliances so they don't fall.
Preparing an Emergency Kit and Emergency Supplies
To prepare for potential power, water, and gas outages following an earthquake, assemble an emergency kit and emergency supplies.
Include in your emergency kit drinking water (2–3 500ml bottles), emergency food (energy bars, canned goods, crackers, etc.), a first-aid kit (bandages and disinfectant), any regular medications, a flashlight, a mobile battery pack, cash (including coins), copies of your passport and residence card, and rain gear.
It is recommended that you stock at least three days' worth (preferably a week's worth) of food and drinking water. A guideline is 3 liters of drinking water per person per day. Don't forget to also prepare for your personal needs, such as regular medications or allergy-friendly foods.
Emergency Contacts and Evacuation Procedures
If a major earthquake strikes, your first priority is to ensure your personal safety. Remember basic actions such as hiding under a table, protecting your head, and remaining still until the shaking stops.
Once the shaking has stopped, the standard procedure is to check for fire hazards, turn off the gas supply at the main valve, and open windows and doors to secure an escape route. During evacuation, use stairs—do not use elevators.
It's essential to identify the "evacuation sites (temporary or designated shelters)" designated by your local municipality beforehand. You can find this information on local government websites and hazard maps. In Japan, smartphone apps such as "Yahoo! Disaster Prevention News" and "NHK News & Disaster Prevention" are widely used and provide real-time earthquake alerts and evacuation information.
Emergency numbers are 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services. Also take advantage of multilingual information resources such as NHK World and local government disaster prevention information services.
Earthquake Insurance and Rental Insurance
Fire insurance—commonly required when signing a rental lease—does not cover fire caused by earthquakes. Earthquake-induced building damage is also not covered by fire insurance. While building damage is generally the landlord's responsibility, if your personal belongings (furniture, appliances, clothing, etc.) are damaged in an earthquake, they may not be covered.
If you want to protect your personal belongings, consider adding earthquake insurance to your fire insurance policy. Earthquake insurance cannot be purchased alone—it must be bundled with fire insurance. Insurance premiums vary depending on the property location and building structure. Refer to How Fire Insurance Works and How to Choose It and thoroughly review your insurance coverage when moving in.
Disaster Preparedness Resources for Foreigners
Abundant multilingual disaster preparedness resources are available for foreigners who have recently arrived in Japan. Prefectural "Foreign Residents Advisory Centers" and "International Exchange Associations" often distribute multilingual disaster preparedness handbooks. Multilingual disaster preparedness information is also available on the websites of the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Participating in disaster preparedness drills held by your neighborhood association is also a valuable opportunity to learn actual evacuation routes and local procedures. Even if language is a barrier, participation helps you become familiar with residents and builds a foundation for mutual assistance in emergencies. Maintaining connections with your local community is one of the most important forms of disaster preparedness.
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