The Internet is an essential part of our daily lives.
So when you move, you may have many questions, such as whether your new home will have internet access, which line to choose if you need to sign up, and what the contract process is.
So, this time we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner everything from the types of internet lines available for rentals to how to apply.
In addition, we will also introduce recommended internet providers with excellent usage fees, line speeds, and stability.
If you are worried about the internet when moving, please refer to this article to help you enjoy your new life comfortably.
Types of internet lines available for rent
We use the Internet casually every day, but there are actually different types of internet lines.
First, let us introduce the types of internet lines used in rental properties.
Internet lines in rental properties are often connected via telephone lines or using cable broadcasting lines.
When choosing an internet line, you may not understand what is meant by the term "XX line," but first you should understand the different types of internet lines and their respective characteristics.
There are four main types of internet connections:
- Fiber optic line
- ASDL Line
- CATV Line
- Mobile Line
I will explain each one in turn.
Fiber optic line
Fiber optic lines are a type of line that is commonly found in rental properties.
The characteristic of fiber optic lines is that they use optical fiber and transmit light signals at high speeds.
The advantage is that the line is not affected by the environment, so the communication speed is fast and the line can be used stably.
The disadvantage is that if you don't have fiber optic cable in your room, you will need to have the cable installed. Installation often requires you to be present during the day, which can be a hassle, as it requires scheduling.
ASDL Line
An ADSL line is an internet line that uses a traditional telephone line.
In many cases, making a call while using the Internet can slow down your connection.
The advantages are a wide coverage area and low service fees.
In recent years, more and more properties have been switched to optical fiber lines, and there are fewer properties with ADSL lines.
Some telecommunications companies have discontinued their services, so it may not be possible to sign up for them.
CATV Line
CATV is a line that uses a cable television communication network.
The service is mainly provided by JCOM and local cable TV stations, and the coverage area is limited.
The advantage is that if you sign up for it together with your smartphone or telephone service, a monthly fee is applied and you don't need to sign a contract with a provider.
The disadvantages are that the speed is slower than fiber optic lines and the applicable plans are limited.
In some cases, the monthly fee may be higher than that of a fiber optic line.
Mobile Line
As the name suggests, mobile networks use mobile phone signals.
Mobile routers and SoftBank Air sold by various companies
The advantage of a mobile router is that it is portable.
However, since it uses mobile phone communications, it cannot be used in places where there is no signal.
Another disadvantage is that the speed is slower than a fixed line and there are data restrictions.
Differences between internet access and customer service for rental properties
Rental property information will state either "Internet equipped" or "Internet enabled."
These two words will tell you that the property has an internet connection.
But there's a big difference between "complete" and "compatible."
Next, we will explain the difference between Internet-ready and Internet-ready.
Internet-equipped features
Properties that come equipped with internet do not require line installation or provider contracts.
You can start using the internet as soon as you move in.
There are no formalities and no upfront costs.
However, since you cannot choose the type of line or provider, communication speed and stability may be lacking.
In particular, in apartment buildings with many units, there are many residents, so it can be difficult to get through at certain times of the day.
Be sure to check the speed and type of line before signing a contract for a property.
Internet-enabled features
Properties with internet access are equipped with only a line.
There is no line to the room, so you will have to make your own arrangements and choose your provider.
For example, if the property uses the FLET'S Hikari line, you can continue with your previous provider.
When searching for a property, be sure to talk to your landlord or real estate agent about the lines that have been installed and the construction costs for laying the lines.
Features of free internet lines in rental properties
A property with free internet access is the same as a property with internet access.
The line installation and provider contracts have been completed at the property, so you can start using the internet immediately.
This is suitable for those who are more concerned about keeping monthly fees low than line speed and ease of connection.
However, while it may seem like a good deal, the rent and management fees may be higher.
Additionally, properties with many units have the disadvantage of making it difficult to connect.
How to use the internet in a rental property
How you use the internet connection in a rental property varies depending on whether the property is fully equipped or not.
In particular, for internet-enabled properties, an application process is required.
We will explain how to use it, including if the property does not have an internet connection.
If you have internet access
If the property has internet access, you do not need to complete any procedures.
You can start using the internet connection from the day you move in.
However, there are few properties that have wireless Wi-Fi, so in those cases you will need to bring your own Wi-Fi router.
Wi-Fi routers can be purchased online or at electronics stores, so it is a good idea to buy one before moving in.
You can also enjoy the internet by connecting with a LAN cable, but this will require more wiring and be less convenient, so we recommend installing Wi-Fi.
If internet enabled
If you want to have internet access, you will need to go through a process, so you will not be able to use the internet immediately after moving.
After application, some properties require line construction and some do not.
Applications can be made online or over the phone, and a determination will be made at that time as to whether or not line construction is required.
If construction is required, it is a good idea to complete the procedures before you move in and schedule the construction to take place immediately after you move in.
In particular, it is difficult to make reservations for construction dates because there are few contractors who are available on weekends.
Recently, it is sometimes not possible to make reservations for line construction work until a month in advance, so some line providers will rent out mobile routers in the meantime.
I recommend you make arrangements as early as possible.
If your rental property does not have an internet connection
If your property does not have internet access, you will need to make your own arrangements.
If you arrange it yourself, you can choose the line yourself. We recommend that you choose it based on your behavior patterns and usage fees.
For example, if you are often out and about, you may want to consider a mobile router.
Especially for those who use the internet for work, the portability of the device means you can enjoy the internet anywhere.
The monthly fee is also cheaper if you subscribe to it as a set with a smartphone.
And for those who want to enjoy watching videos and playing games, a fixed line is recommended.
Please note that since line construction is required, you will need permission from your landlord or management company.
Although the charges will be higher, you can continue to use the line you have been using. If you are a new subscriber, a discount campaign will be applied to the line installation fee.
The downside is that there are restrictions on the length of time you can join, but it's still worth making use of.
Things to be aware of when using the internet for rental properties
There are also some things to keep in mind when using the internet in a rental property.
In particular, problems may arise when arranging for line construction, so please pay attention to the following three points.
- Line construction requires permission from the landlord or management company.
- The line you are using may not be available.
- Be aware of cancellation fees
Line construction requires permission from the landlord or management company.
If you are applying for an internet line yourself, you will need your landlord's permission to check whether they are able to carry out line construction.
Line construction involves drilling holes in walls, so if it is done without permission you will be charged for restoring the area to its original condition.
Be sure to get permission before applying.
The line you are using may not be available.
If you currently have an internet contract, you may want to use the same line in your new home.
However, there are cases where the line you have contracted for at the property cannot be used.
For example, the line may be outside the area where you are moving, or the property may not be suitable for apartment types.
In this case, you will need to cancel your subscription or apply for a new one.
You may be charged a penalty for canceling your contract, so be sure to check in advance whether your current internet service will be available at your new address.
Be aware of cancellation fees
A common problem with rented internet lines is the cancellation of the line.
The penalty fee itself is around 10,000 to 20,000 yen, but since the line construction costs are paid in installments, the construction costs will be charged in one lump sum at the time of cancellation.
Even if the reason for cancellation is that the service cannot be used at your new address, a penalty will still be incurred.
Ideally, you would be able to continue using the service at your new address, but if it is not compatible, you will have to cancel it.
The contract is an automatic renewal plan, and if you sign a contract, a penalty fee will often be incurred.
This is often applied especially to new membership campaigns, so be sure to check the contract details.
Recently, there are plans with no cancellation fees and lines that require new subscribers to pay a cancellation fee. It is important to check the details of the plan.
Recommended internet line providers for rental properties
So far, we have introduced the types of Internet lines, how to use them, and points to note.
Here are some points to consider when choosing an internet connection for rent:
- The speed is fast and stable
- Low usage fee
- Covers a wide range of areas
- Penalties for contract renewal and cancellation
Taking these points into consideration, here are some recommended internet lines:
For those who want to use a smartphone and set discount
Mobile carriers' fiber optic lines often offer internet as a set with a smartphone at a discount.
There are four major network operators:
- OCN for Docomo Hikari
- GMO TokuToku BB SoftBank Hikari
- au Hikari
- Rakuten Hikari
OCN for Docomo Hikari
Check out "OCN for Docomo Hikari"
Docomo users can get up to 1,100 yen off their smartphone charges.
In addition, new installation fees are free, a free Wi-Fi router rental service is available, and other benefits include a 20,000 yen cash back and 2,000 d points.
GMO TokuToku BB SoftBank Hikari
Check out "GMO TokuToku BB SoftBank Hikari"
SoftBank and Y Mobile users can get a discount of up to 1,100 yen on their smartphone charges.
SoftBank Hikari offers a stable communication line of up to 1Gbps, making it ideal for teleworking and video streaming.
There are also plenty of benefits, including a cash back of up to 36,000 yen and a free high-performance router.
au Hikari
There are discounts on smartphone charges for au and UQ Mobile users, and cash back campaigns for installation costs are also being held.
Furthermore, since you don't need to sign up with a provider, the price is all-inclusive, making it a great deal.
Rakuten Hikari
If you use Rakuten Mobile, there are great plans available, including one year of free basic fees.
The service area is nationwide and is also wide, and you can earn Rakuten points.
For those who live in properties that support FLET'S Hikari
For properties that support FLET'S Hikari, we recommend a collaboration plan with a provider.
We will introduce three representative companies:
- Biglobe Hikari
- DTI Hikari
- OCN Hikari
Biglobe Hikari
Biglobe Hikari has a low monthly fee. The apartment type is available for around 4,000 yen.
au users can enjoy a wide range of services, including the ability to accumulate au Smart Value points.
In addition, if you apply through the above site, we are currently running a cashback campaign of up to 40,000 yen.
DTI Hikari
DTI Hikari is famous for its plans with no cancellation fees. They also offer some great services, such as free basic fees for the activation month.
In addition, for new customers, we are also running a cashback campaign of up to 24,000 yen.
OCN Hikari
OCN Hikari combines connection services and provider services, so you only need to complete the application process once.
In addition, the fees are easy to understand and the rates are reasonable, so I recommend it.
For those who want high speed communication
When it comes to internet connections, you want to pay attention not only to the price but also to the speed of the connection.
If you're looking for speed, here are two options I recommend:
- NURO Hikari
- fon Hikari
NURO Hikari
NURO Hikari is popular for its stable, high-speed communication with download speeds of up to 2Gbps and reasonable monthly fees.
We also offer a mobile router rental service until your line is activated, making us ideal for those who need to move suddenly.
We are currently running a cashback campaign offering up to 45,000 yen.
fon Hikari
fon Hikari is a high-speed fiber optic service with download speeds of up to 2Gbps.
There are campaigns offering free installation costs, and there are no contract periods or cancellation fees, so it's easy to sign a contract.
You can also download music and use video streaming services without any hassle.
This is especially recommended for those who work remotely from home.
summary
This time, we explained about internet lines for rental properties.
There is a big difference between "fully equipped" and "compatible" internet lines in rental properties.
In fully-equipped properties, the lines and providers have already been arranged, so you can start using internet as soon as you move in, but in apartment complexes and other multi-unit dwellings, it can be difficult to get connected if there are a lot of tenants.
There are also properties that offer free internet, but the fees for use are high in rent and management fees.
For properties that only have internet access, you will need to arrange for the line installation yourself and will need to get permission for the work from your landlord or management company in advance.
If your property no longer has access to the internet you've been using, you'll need to choose a new telecommunications provider, so be sure to use the information in this article to help you choose the one that's right for you.
When choosing an internet line, it is important to consider not only the cost but also the speed and stability of the connection.
It is also important to consider factors such as how easy it is to understand the contract terms and whether or not support is provided from installation to use, so be sure to compare each company.
