物件見学の予約日に台風が近づいている場合はどうすればいいですか？

台風や大雨警報が出ている場合は、無理をせず日程を変更するのが基本です。移動そのものに危険がともなうため、安全を優先し、天候が落ち着いてから改めて見学を申し込みましょう。通常の雨であれば、延期の必要はありません。

中古住宅を購入する場合、雨漏りは何年保証されますか？

売主が宅地建物取引業者の場合、宅地建物取引業法により、引き渡しから2年以上の契約不適合責任期間を定めることが義務づけられています。これより買主に不利な特約は無効です。個人間の売買では、契約書で定めた期間や条件によって保証の有無が変わるため、契約前に必ず確認しましょう。

新築住宅の瑕疵担保責任は何年ですか？

品確法（住宅の品質確保の促進等に関する法律）第94条により、新築住宅の請負人・売主は、引き渡しから10年間、構造耐力上主要な部分と、雨水の浸入を防止する部分の瑕疵について責任を負います。これは法律で定められた最低限の期間です。

浸水しやすい土地かどうかは、どこで確認できますか？

国土交通省のハザードマップポータルサイトで、浸水想定区域や土砂災害警戒区域に該当していないかを確認できます。雨の日に現地を歩いて水のたまり方を見ることとあわせて活用すると、より実態に近い判断ができます。

雨の日の見学で写真や動画を撮ってもいいですか？

多くの場合、担当者に一声かければ問題ありません。水はけや雨漏りの痕跡など、あとで見返したい箇所は記録しておくと、他の物件と比較するときに役立ちます。ただし、個人情報が写り込む共用部などは配慮が必要です。

雨の日に見学して気に入った物件が見つかったら、次に何をすればいいですか？

晴れた日にもう一度見学し、日当たりや眺望、外観の印象を確認するのがおすすめです。そのうえで、資金計画や住宅診断（ホームインスペクション）の要否について、担当者や専門家に相談すると安心です。

Should You Postpone a Property Tour on a Rainy Day? Criteria and Checkpoints

You can’t truly understand a home just by looking at it on a sunny day.

To put it simply, unless there’s a typhoon or a heavy rain warning, there’s no need to postpone a property viewing. In fact, it’s one of the few opportunities to check for a home’s weaknesses—such as drainage issues, signs of leaks, indoor humidity, and the sound of rain—that are hard to spot on sunny days.Before you get disappointed when you see a rain symbol in the weather forecast, keep in mind that there are things you can only see on a rainy day.

Key Points of This Article

Unless there’s a typhoon or heavy rain that warrants a weather warning, there’s no need to postpone a property viewing.
Rainy days allow you to check for weaknesses—such as drainage, leaks, humidity, and household noises—that are hard to detect on sunny days.
Conversely, since it’s harder to assess sunlight, views, and the exterior’s appearance on rainy days, you’ll want to view properties you like on a sunny day as well.
Under the Housing Quality Assurance Act, new homes are covered by liability for non-conformity with the contract for 10 years from the date of handover, while used homes are covered for at least 2 years from the date of handover if the seller is a licensed real estate agent (for private sales between individuals, this depends on the terms of the contract).

Table of Contents

I.Should You View a Property on a Rainy Day? Guidelines for Deciding
II.What You Can Learn from a Property Tour on a Rainy Day
III.Things That Are Hard to Assess During a Property Tour on a Rainy Day
IV.7 Key Points to Check on a Rainy Day
V.Useful Items to Bring
VI.Why You Should View Properties You Like on Sunny Days, Too
VII.Summary
VIII.Frequently Asked Questions

CHAPTER I

Should You View a Property Even on a Rainy Day? Guidelines for Deciding

If it’s just a normal rain, you should go ahead with the viewing as scheduled. This is because any flaws in the building, the lot, or the surrounding area are actually easier to spot when it’s raining. However, depending on the weather, it might be better to reschedule.

Let’s Go! Normal Rain or Light Rain: An Opportunity to Check for Weaknesses in the Property

Attendons: Typhoons or Heavy Rain with Weather Warnings —Prioritize Safety and Reschedule

When typhoons or heavy rain warnings are in effect, traveling itself can be dangerous. In such cases, don’t take any risks—contact your agent to reschedule.On the other hand, if it’s just a normal rain, you can still tour the property with just an umbrella, and you may even discover details you wouldn’t notice on a sunny day. If you’re unsure, use the warnings and advisories issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency or local authorities as a guide.

CHAPTER II

What You Can Learn from a Property Tour on a Rainy Day

Viewings on rainy days offer insights you won’t get on sunny days. Here are three typical examples.

Drainage on the Property and Surrounding Roads

You can’t verify the drainage of the property, the road in front of it, or your commute route unless it’s raining. Information such as where puddles tend to form after heavy rain or how water flows through gutters and drainage channels cannot be determined from maps or photos alone. Areas where water tends to pool are prone to trapping moisture and may also be more susceptible to insect infestations.For added peace of mind, check the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Hazard Map Portal to confirm that the property is not located in a flood-prone area or a landslide warning zone.

Roof Leaks and Plumbing Issues

Stains on ceilings and walls, as well as water droplets around window frames, are among the most noticeable issues on rainy days. Especially in pre-owned homes, you’ll want to carefully check for any signs of past roof leaks.For new homes, Article 94 of the Act on Promotion of Ensuring Quality of Housing mandates a 10-year warranty period from the date of handover for parts critical to structural strength and those designed to prevent rainwater infiltration.For pre-owned homes, if the seller is a licensed real estate broker, the Real Estate Transaction Business Act stipulates a liability period for non-conformity with the contract of at least two years from the date of handover. However, in transactions between private individuals, conditions vary depending on the contract terms, so it is essential to confirm these details before signing the contract.

The steps for purchasing a pre-owned home and how it differs from buying a new home are explained in detail in “How to Buy a Pre-Owned Home: Steps Before and After Signing the Contract, and Why It Offers Advantages Over New Construction.”

How Realistically You Hear Rain and Everyday Sounds

The sound of rain, the sound of car tires on a wet road, and the sound of wind and rain coming through ventilation vents are things you hardly notice on a sunny day.How much noise can be heard with the windows closed? How does the sound carry if the property is near a major road or railroad tracks? The impressions you gain here will help minimize any discrepancy between your expectations during the viewing and your actual living experience after moving in.

CHAPTER III

Things That Are Hard to Gauge During a Property Tour on a Rainy Day

While there are many advantages to viewing a property on a rainy day, there are also some drawbacks. If you’re aware of them in advance, you can effectively work around them.

Natural Light and Views

Since sunlight is blocked, it’s difficult to accurately gauge the brightness and sense of openness inside the home, as well as the view from the windows. Since natural light is often a key factor in choosing a home, if you find a property that catches your eye, I recommend viewing it again on a sunny day.

First Impressions

Under cloudy skies, a property’s charm can easily seem more subdued than it actually is. The impression created by the greenery in the yard and the building’s exterior can change depending on the weather. Seeing what the property looks like on a day other than a rainy one will help you get a better sense of the home as a whole.

CHAPTER IV

7 Checkpoints to Look for on a Rainy Day

Here, we’ve summarized seven specific points you’ll want to check before purchasing. Be sure to inspect not only the interior but also the exterior, surrounding streets, and—if it’s a condominium—the common areas.

Drainage on the Property and in the Parking Lot

If water pools in certain spots every time it rains, not only will minor inconveniences accumulate in your daily life, but it can also lead to damage to the exterior landscaping and the building itself. Check the area where you get in and out of your car, the path to the front door, the yard and exterior landscaping, as well as the gutters and drains to ensure water isn’t overflowing or pooling.

Possible consequences include getting your shoes or pant legs wet every time you get in or out of your car, an increased risk of slipping for young children or elderly family members, and rainwater pooling around exterior walls and the foundation.

Risk of Flooding on the Road in Front of Your Home

It’s important to pay attention not only to the building itself but also to the road in front of it and your daily travel routes. Check whether water is pooling on the road, whether water is flowing through the gutters, and whether there are any low-lying areas nearby. The elevation differences on the road and its tendency to pool water are often things you can only determine by visiting the site on a rainy day. It’s reassuring to cross-check this information with the national hazard map.

For guidance on selecting a lot itself, please refer to “How to Find Land for a Custom-Built Home: Methods, Precautions, and Selection Tips.” For ideas on making the most of a small lot, please see “ Secrets to Living Comfortably on a Small Lot.”

Signs of Leaks and Water Stains

Inside the house, check for stains or signs of mold caused by rainwater intrusion. Areas around window frames and the back of storage spaces are easy to overlook, so be sure to inspect them carefully.

Ceiling: Stains that look like water drips, peeling wallpaper, discoloration

Corner of walls: Darkening, mold, or damp marks

Around Windows and Window Frames: Water droplets, discoloration, damage to woodwork, and deterioration of caulking

Closets and Wardrobes : Stains on back walls or floors, musty odor, dampness

If you’re concerned about the condition of the building itself, the “Complete Guide to Earthquake-Resistant Renovations and Home Inspections” provides a detailed explanation of how to conduct a home inspection.

Indoor Dampness and Odors

On rainy days, humidity rises, making it easier to notice mustiness and a moldy smell indoors. North-facing rooms, storage areas, wet areas (such as bathrooms and kitchens), and the area around the entrance are particularly prone to trapping moisture. Check the air the moment you open the front door, the smell at the back of storage spaces, and how the floors and walls feel to the touch.

Dampness and mold are closely related to a home’s insulation and airtightness. Reading “What Is the Mandatory Compliance with Energy Efficiency Standards? ” alongside this article will deepen your understanding.

Rain Sounds and Everyday Noises

Sounds that are hard to notice during a typical tour—such as rain hitting the roof or eaves, or the sound of tires on a wet road—become more apparent on rainy days. Take a moment to quietly observe how sounds carry when the windows are closed, how they resonate if major roads or train tracks are nearby, and how noise enters through ventilation vents or around air conditioning ducts.

Balcony and Veranda Drainage

In apartments and on balconies or verandas on the second floor or higher, drainage is another key point not to overlook. If leaves or debris clog the drain, water can easily pool, potentially leading to leaks into neighboring units or water seeping into your own home. Check to see if water is pooling in any one spot, if it flows naturally toward the drain, and if the area is easy to use for hanging laundry.

Common Areas of the Apartment Building

When touring an apartment building, be sure to explore not only the interior units but also the common areas.Check whether the entrance floor is slippery, whether rain is blowing into the common hallways and stairwells, whether there are puddles or mud splashes in the bicycle parking area or parking lot, and whether the trash collection area is located in a place that’s easy to use even on rainy days. The little comforts of daily life are actually easier to appreciate on rainy days.

雨の中、しゃがんで排水口や駐車場の水はけを確認するカップルの様子

CHAPTER V

Items That Come in Handy

A little preparation can make a big difference in both your comfort and your ability to assess a property during a rainy-day viewing. Packing the following items in your bag will allow you to approach the property with a clear mind.

An umbrella that leaves both hands free, or a folding umbrella and a raincoat
Non-slip shoes—for walking around the exterior to inspect the property
A towel and a spare pair of socks
A smartphone camera—to document any areas that catch your eye
A measuring tape—to visualize furniture placement
Writing utensils and a note summarizing what you want to check

CHAPTER VI

Why You Should View Properties You Like on Sunny Days

Viewing a property on a rainy day is a great way to identify its weaknesses, such as drainage, leaks, humidity, and noise. On the other hand, you can’t fully assess the sunlight, the view, or the bright, inviting impression of the exterior in the rain. If you find a property that truly captures your heart, be sure to visit it again on a sunny day.By seeing the property in both rainy and sunny conditions, you’ll get a more accurate picture of what it’s really like. To avoid thinking, “This isn’t what I expected,” after moving in, it’s worth taking this extra step.

Basics of Viewing a Property

On rainy days, check for issues such as drainage, leaks, dampness, and noise. On sunny days, assess the property’s appeal in terms of sunlight, views, and exterior appearance. For any home that catches your interest, it’s best to visit on both types of days.

If you’re considering a pre-owned single-family home, please also refer to “ What Are the Benefits of Renovating a Pre-Owned Single-Family Home? An Explanation of How to Choose a Property and What to Watch Out for When Buying.”

CHAPTER VII

Summary

Just because it’s raining on the day of your property tour doesn’t mean you need to rush to reschedule. Drainage, signs of leaks, indoor humidity, and the sounds of rain or traffic are clues that are often overlooked on sunny days—and they’re details you can only verify on a rainy day.Using the seven checkpoints introduced here as a guide, be sure to inspect everything from the exterior to the interior and common areas. After that, if you find a property you like, go back to see it again on a sunny day. This thorough process will help ensure you choose a home you won’t regret.

CHAPTER VIII

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What should I do if a typhoon is approaching on the day of my property viewing?

If a typhoon or heavy rain warning is in effect, the general rule is to reschedule without pushing yourself. Since traveling under such conditions can be dangerous, prioritize your safety and reschedule the viewing once the weather has calmed down. If it’s just normal rain, there’s no need to postpone.

Q. When purchasing a pre-owned home, how many years is the warranty for roof leaks?

If the seller is a licensed real estate broker, the Real Estate Transaction Business Act requires them to provide a warranty period of at least two years from the date of handover for non-conformity with the contract. Any special provisions that are less favorable to the buyer than this are invalid. In private sales between individuals, the existence of a warranty depends on the period and conditions specified in the contract, so be sure to confirm these details before signing.

Q. How many years is the warranty for defects in a new home?

Under Article 94 of the Act on Promotion of Ensuring Quality of Housing, contractors and sellers of new homes are liable for defects in structurally critical components and components designed to prevent rainwater infiltration for 10 years from the date of delivery. This is the minimum period stipulated by law.

Q. Where can I check if a plot of land is prone to flooding?

You can check the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Hazard Map Portal to see if the property falls within any flood-prone areas or landslide-prone areas. Using this information in conjunction with walking the site on a rainy day to observe how water pools will help you make a more accurate assessment of the actual conditions.

Q. Is it okay to take photos or videos during a rainy-day viewing?

In most cases, it’s fine as long as you ask the agent first. Recording areas you’ll want to review later—such as drainage conditions or signs of water leaks—will help when comparing properties. However, you should be mindful of common areas where personal information might be visible.

Q. If I find a property I like during a rainy-day tour, what should I do next?

We recommend visiting the property again on a sunny day to check the sunlight, views, and overall impression of the exterior. After that, it’s a good idea to consult with your agent or a professional about your financial plan and whether a home inspection is necessary.