Cleaning ventilation fans, range hoods, and bathroom exhaust fans in rental apartments is the tenant's responsibility. This guide thoroughly explains the cleaning frequency and procedures for kitchens, bathrooms, and 24-hour ventilation systems, plus tips to prevent cost disputes when moving out.
Reviewed by: Nobuyuki MoriPresident, M-Assets Co., Ltd. / Licensed Real Estate Transaction Specialist (Miyagi #018212)
A guide to restoration to original condition rules you should know when doing DIY and redecorating in rental properties. Real estate experts explain the average costs charged at move-out for wall holes, pet scratches, and flooring damage, as well as strategies to minimize expenses.
Rental properties typically feature four main flooring types: hardwood, tatami, cushioned vinyl, and carpet. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of each type's characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, typical restoration costs at move-out, and whether DIY modifications are permitted. We'll also cover daily care methods for each flooring type.
Repair costs for a rental property's ventilation fan or range hood that stops working or makes noise are generally the landlord's responsibility if caused by normal wear and tear or natural failure; the tenant is responsible if the failure results from neglecting cleaning. This article explains the breakdown of responsibility by the cause of noise (such as loud or high-pitched sounds), location-specific checks for toilet, bathroom, and kitchen, lifespan and replacement costs, and procedures for rent reduction and self-repairs when the management company won't fix it—all based on Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism guidelines.
One thing often overlooked in rental apartments is the cleaning of ventilation fans and exhaust vents. Rental properties have multiple ventilation systems installed, including the kitchen range hood (ventilation fan), bathroom exhaust fan, and exhaust vents in toilets and washrooms. When these become dirty, the indoor air quality deteriorates, leading to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and increased electricity bills.
Furthermore, if you leave the ventilation fan filter clogged, the motor becomes overloaded and can fail. If the landlord determines at move-out that the ventilation fan filter is significantly soiled, you may be charged for restoration to original condition.
Regarding cleaning of ventilation fans and exhaust vents, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism provides the following guidelines:
In other words, daily cleaning (filter cleaning and removal of oil buildup) is within the tenant's responsibility. Developing regular cleaning habits during your tenancy helps prevent move-out cost disputes.
| Area | Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| Filter | Once a month (if filter-equipped model) |
| Fan (propeller or multi-stage) | Every 3–6 months |
| Exterior and body | Once a month |
| Internal structure | About once a year |
You'll need:
Steps:
How to make baking soda spray: Dissolve 2 teaspoons of baking soda in 200 ml of water and pour into a spray bottle. Spray it on stubborn grease, let sit for 5–10 minutes, then wipe—very effective.
More recent rental properties use filterless multi-stage fans. Without a filter, grease attaches directly to the fan blades, so you'll need to clean them every 3–4 months. The method for removing the fan varies by model, so search for the model number on the panel or ask your property management company.
Bathroom exhaust fans accumulate moisture and dust easily and can become a breeding ground for mold if left unchecked.
Cleaning frequency: Monthly is ideal (at minimum, every 3 months)
Steps:
Many manufacturers recommend running the bathroom exhaust fan 24 hours continuously, which means dust accumulates quickly when it's always running.
Grille-type exhaust vents on the ceiling or wall are easy—just remove the outer cover and vacuum out the dust. Check them every 2–3 months.
Properties built after 2003 are required to have a 24-hour ventilation system. This system has a dedicated filter that needs regular replacement and cleaning.
Neglecting 24-hour ventilation system maintenance results in poor airflow and rising indoor CO2 levels. This can contribute to sick building syndrome, so don't skip cleaning.
Grease buildup on ventilation fans is a common source of move-out cost disputes. Start these practices during your tenancy:
1. Photograph the ventilation fan condition when you move in If it was already dirty before you moved in, keep the photos as evidence. Recording it on the move-in checklist provides extra peace of mind.
2. Keep a record of your cleaning Keep a note of when you cleaned (even a phone calendar memo works). This makes it easier to reference during the move-out inspection.
3. Do a thorough cleaning before move-out Deep-clean the ventilation fan and range hood before you move to greatly reduce the risk of being charged for "inadequate maintenance."
4. Consider hiring a professional If grease buildup is severe, hiring a professional house-cleaning service before move-out is an option. It costs around ¥10,000–¥30,000, but is often cheaper than the charges you'd face at move-out.
Cleaning rental ventilation fans and exhaust vents is the tenant's responsibility, and regular maintenance prevents move-out disputes and keeps your indoor environment healthy.
Regular ventilation fan cleaning keeps your air quality comfortable while preventing move-out troubles.
床スラブ厚と上階の足音問題——賃貸で「ドン」という衝撃音が響く構造的な理由と物件選びのポイント
前橋・群馬の賃貸エリアガイド【2026年版】——主要エリア別家賃相場と住みやすさを徹底比較
Making the Most of Protruding Beams and Columns in Rental Apartments — Smart Furniture Placement Strategies
Mito & Ibaraki Rental Area Guide [2026] — Comprehensive Explanation of Rental Rates and Livability by Major Area
Uncovering Property Issues by Asking Previous Tenants About Their Departure—Questions to Ask During Viewings and How to Interpret Answers
