When rental lease renewals or moves overlap with parental or maternity leave, we provide detailed guidance on managing income fluctuations in applications, caring for your body, and prioritizing child-friendly neighborhoods when choosing a new home.
Reviewed by: Nobuyuki MoriPresident, M-Assets Co., Ltd. / Licensed Real Estate Transaction Specialist (Miyagi #018212)
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| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I renew my lease? | Yes, renewal generally proceeds as usual. If the guarantor company re-screens you, an employment continuation certificate or parental leave certificate showing the income drop is temporary is usually sufficient |
| How much is the renewal fee? | Typically 1-2 months' rent. Set aside funds before your leave starts |
| Will I pass screening for a new apartment? | Screening is stricter because it is based on benefit income (about 67% of wages, 50% from day 181). A return-to-work certificate or combining income with your spouse improves your chances |
| When is the best time to move? | Right after maternity leave begins, or once the baby is 3-6 months old. Avoid the immediate postpartum period |
Below, we explain each procedure and screening strategy in detail.
When rental lease renewal dates or moving timelines overlap with parental or maternity leave, special procedures and considerations are required. Because income fluctuates during this period, it is important to prepare with advance knowledge. In this article, we explain specific points to keep in mind when renewing your rental lease or moving during parental and maternity leave.
During parental and maternity leave, income typically shifts to parental leave allowance or childbirth benefits, which results in lower take-home pay compared to your regular salary. When renewing your rental lease, the guarantor company may conduct a fresh background check.
Issues often arise during renewal reviews when the guarantor company re-verifies your current income situation. By submitting an employment continuation certificate from your employer or a parental leave certification document, you can prove that the income reduction is temporary.
Additionally, if your lease includes a renewal fee, you should prepare funds in advance as an expense during your leave. Renewal fees typically amount to one to two months' worth of rent. Before starting your leave, confirm your renewal schedule and plan your finances accordingly.
Many families consider moving to a larger space or a neighborhood with better amenities for child-rearing when a baby arrives. However, moving during postpartum recovery is physically demanding, so choosing the right timing is crucial.
Moving before delivery (shortly after starting maternity leave)
This approach involves moving during the relatively stable early period after starting maternity leave. In the later stages of pregnancy, consider your physical well-being and have movers handle heavy items and strenuous work. Informing your moving company that you are moving while pregnant often results in extra consideration and care.
Moving during parental leave (from 3–6 months after birth)
If you move after your baby is around three months old and has settled down somewhat, securing childcare during the move is important. Prepare thoroughly to ensure the moving process can be completed quickly.
When applying for a new rental property during parental leave, income-based screening may be stricter than usual. Since parental leave allowance is approximately 67% of your monthly net income (50% after 180 days), it affects the rent-to-income ratio used in application reviews.
Preparing the following documents increases your chances of passing the application review.
In some cases, combining your partner's income with yours makes approval more likely. Take advantage of this option when applying for a property.
When moving during parental or maternity leave, minimizing physical strain is paramount.
Sharing packing responsibilities
Ask family or friends to handle packing heavy items, and limit yourself to organizing light items like clothes and books. Be careful not to overpack boxes.
Using full-service moving company options
Full-service moving packages handle everything from packing to unpacking. While this costs more, it is worth budgeting for during your parental leave.
Tips for moving with a baby
If moving with a baby, ideally have a trusted caregiver such as a babysitter or in-laws watch your child during the move. The noise and commotion of moving can stress your baby as well.
If you move during parental leave, prioritizing child-friendly neighborhoods and amenities when selecting your next home is essential.
Access to daycare and preschools
In recent years, many urban areas face tight daycare availability. Check with your local municipal office and daycare centers in advance to see if spots are available in your new neighborhood. Many municipalities accept daycare applications during parental leave, even before you move.
Proximity to parks and child development centers
Having child development centers, libraries, and parks nearby enriches your parental leave experience. When choosing a neighborhood, confirm the availability of these facilities.
Child-safe interior design
Prioritize child safety when selecting your home. Pay attention to corner units, outlet placement, storage configuration, and other layout features that make child-rearing easier.
Moving involves more administrative procedures than usual. During parental leave, remember to complete the following:
When returning to work after parental leave, your address change may affect your commute route and transportation allowance. Remember to notify your workplace before your return.
Renewing your rental lease or moving during parental and maternity leave is a unique situation requiring careful attention to income changes and physical recovery. Advance preparation and planning are key to success. Gather your employment continuation certificate and parental leave allowance documents, and leverage your partner's income as well when applying. Avoid overexerting yourself during the move—use full-service moving options whenever possible. By prioritizing child-friendly amenities and neighborhoods when selecting your new home, you can start your new life smoothly after returning to work.
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