Sendai

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Utilities and Housing

Basic knowledge about renting accommodations and connecting to utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.

Sections

1. Housing in Sendai

Housing Options

  1. Apartments (アパート or マンション):

    • Apartments (アパート): Typically smaller, older, and made of wood or lightweight materials. These are more affordable but may lack modern amenities.
    • Mansions (マンション): Larger, more modern, and made of reinforced concrete. These are more expensive but offer better insulation and soundproofing.

  2. Share Houses:

    • Shared living spaces with private bedrooms and communal areas like kitchens and bathrooms. These are popular among students and young professionals.

  3. Detached Houses (一戸建て):

    • Standalone houses are available for rent or purchase, but they are less common for short-term stays and more expensive.

  4. Company Housing (社宅):

    • Some employers provide subsidized housing for employees. This is worth checking with your employer if you’re moving to Sendai for work.

  5. Student Housing:

    • Universities in Sendai, such as Tohoku University, often provide dormitories or assist students in finding affordable housing.

Average Rental Costs

Rental prices in Sendai vary depending on the location, size, and type of housing. Below is a general breakdown:

| Area | 1K/1DK (Single) | 2LDK/3LDK (Family) | |--------------------------|---------------------|-------------------------| | City Center (Aoba-ku)| ¥50,000–¥70,000 | ¥90,000–¥150,000 | | Suburban Areas | ¥40,000–¥60,000 | ¥70,000–¥120,000 | | Outskirts | ¥30,000–¥50,000 | ¥60,000–¥100,000 |

  • Key Areas:
    • Aoba-ku: Central and convenient, close to Sendai Station and shopping areas.
    • Izumi-ku: Suburban, family-friendly, and quieter.
    • Taihaku-ku: Affordable and residential, with good access to nature.
    • Miyagino-ku: More industrial but offers lower rents and proximity to Sendai Station.

Initial Costs

When renting in Japan, you’ll encounter several upfront costs:

  1. Key Money (礼金): A non-refundable "gift" to the landlord, typically 1–2 months’ rent.
  2. Deposit (敷金): Refundable, usually 1–2 months’ rent.
  3. Agency Fee (仲介手数料): One month’s rent, paid to the real estate agent.
  4. First Month’s Rent: Paid upfront.
  5. Guarantor Fee (保証会社利用料): If you don’t have a Japanese guarantor, you may need to pay a fee to a guarantor company (around 50–100% of one month’s rent).

Finding Housing

  • Real Estate Agencies: Look for agencies like Apamanshop, Leopalace21, or local Sendai-based agencies.
  • Online Platforms: Websites like Suumo, Homes.co.jp, and GaijinPot Housing are helpful.
  • University Support: If you’re a student, check with your university for housing assistance.

2. Utilities in Sendai

Electricity (電気)

  • Providers: Tohoku Electric Power (東北電力) is the main provider in Sendai.
  • Setup Process:
    • Contact Tohoku Electric Power online or by phone to set up service.
    • You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal details.
  • Average Monthly Cost:
    • Single: ¥4,000–¥6,000
    • Family: ¥8,000–¥12,000
  • Tips:
    • Electricity is billed based on usage, so be mindful of heating and air conditioning, especially during Sendai’s cold winters.

Gas (ガス)

  • Providers: Sendai Gas (仙台市ガス局) is the primary provider.
  • Setup Process:
    • Contact Sendai Gas to schedule a technician visit for activation.
    • You’ll need to be present during the setup.
  • Average Monthly Cost:
    • Single: ¥3,000–¥5,000
    • Family: ¥6,000–¥10,000
  • Tips:
    • Gas is used for cooking, water heating, and sometimes heating. Winter usage can increase costs.

Water (水道)

  • Provider: Sendai City Waterworks Bureau (仙台市水道局).
  • Setup Process:
    • Call or visit the Waterworks Bureau to set up service.
    • Provide your address and move-in date.
  • Average Monthly Cost:
    • Single: ¥2,000–¥3,000
    • Family: ¥4,000–¥6,000
  • Tips:
    • Water bills are issued every two months in Sendai.

Internet (インターネット)

  • Providers: Popular providers include NTT East (FLET’S Hikari), SoftBank Hikari, and au Hikari.
  • Setup Process:
    • Choose a provider and plan online or at an electronics store.
    • Installation may take 1–2 weeks, so arrange this early.
  • Average Monthly Cost:
    • ¥4,000–¥6,000 for high-speed fiber-optic internet.
  • Tips:
    • Some apartments include internet in the rent, so check before signing a lease.

Mobile Phone (携帯電話)

  • Providers: Docomo, au, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile.
  • Average Monthly Cost:
    • ¥2,000–¥5,000, depending on the plan and data usage.

3. Managing Utilities Effectively

  1. Payment Methods:

    • Utilities can be paid via bank transfer, convenience stores, or online.
    • Automatic bank withdrawals are the most convenient option.

  2. Energy-Saving Tips:

    • Use energy-efficient appliances.
    • Insulate windows and doors during winter to reduce heating costs.
    • Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.

  3. Seasonal Considerations:

    • Winters in Sendai can be cold, so heating costs (electric or gas) will rise.
    • Summers are mild compared to other parts of Japan, so air conditioning costs are lower.

  4. Combining Services:

    • Some companies offer discounts if you bundle internet, mobile, and electricity services.

4. Unique Aspects of Sendai’s Housing Market and Utilities

  1. Earthquake Preparedness:

    • Sendai is in a seismically active region. Many buildings are earthquake-resistant, but it’s wise to confirm this when renting.
    • Keep an emergency kit at home and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes.

  2. Snow and Winter Heating:

    • Sendai experiences snow in winter, so consider housing with good insulation and heating systems.
    • Some older apartments may lack central heating, relying on kerosene or electric heaters.

  3. Proximity to Nature:

    • Many residential areas in Sendai are close to parks, rivers, or mountains, offering a peaceful living environment.

  4. Community Engagement:

    • Sendai has a strong sense of community. Participating in local events or neighborhood associations (自治会) can help you integrate.

5. Summary of Monthly Costs (Single Person)

| Expense | Average Cost (¥) | |--------------------|-----------------------| | Rent | ¥40,000–¥70,000 | | Electricity | ¥4,000–¥6,000 | | Gas | ¥3,000–¥5,000 | | Water | ¥2,000–¥3,000 | | Internet | ¥4,000–¥6,000 | | Mobile Phone | ¥2,000–¥5,000 | | Total | ¥55,000–¥95,000 |

For families, expect higher rent and utility costs, totaling around ¥100,000–¥150,000 per month.

By understanding these details, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate housing and utilities in Sendai. Let me know if you need further assistance!