In recent years, rental properties with window shutters have been gaining attention. With many benefits including security, disaster prevention, and energy savings, they are becoming increasingly popular among tenants. This article provides a detailed explanation of window shutter types, effects, and cost estimates, as well as how to install them in rental properties.
What Are Properties with Window Shutters? What Kind of Feature Is It?
A window shutter is a vertically opening and closing fixture installed on the outside of a window, serving as a modern alternative to traditional rain shutters. In recent new construction homes and rental properties, window shutters are increasingly being adopted in place of traditional rain shutters.
Window shutters can be installed by a contractor or via DIY products, and retrofitting after building completion is also possible. Not only in detached homes, but rental properties adopting window shutters are on the rise, making them an important factor in property selection.
What Effects Do Window Shutters Have?
Window shutters offer a wide range of benefits, from security to energy savings. The main effects are summarized below.
Security Benefits
Windows are the most common entry point for burglars. Window shutters increase deterrence because they take more time to break through. Burglars are said to give up frequently when shutters are present.
Typhoon and Disaster Preparedness
They reduce the risk of flying debris hitting window glass during major typhoons. Closing the shutters is effective for wind and dust protection, making them especially recommended in typhoon-prone areas.
Fire Protection
They reduce the risk of fire spreading from neighboring buildings. The shutter protects the window glass and prevents flames from entering.
Condensation Reduction
Installing window shutters adds an air layer, creating high insulation performance and significantly reducing condensation. Since mold caused by condensation is also prevented, the risk of repair costs at move-out is also reduced.
Improved Heating and Cooling Efficiency
The property becomes less susceptible to outside temperatures, and the heat-shielding effect improves heating and cooling efficiency. Window shutters are also an energy-saving feature that helps reduce utility costs.
Noise Reduction
Installing shutters can be expected to reduce noise by approximately 30dB. For properties in high-traffic locations or near train lines, they help maintain a comfortable living environment.
Window Dirt Prevention
They prevent the adhesion of exhaust fumes and pollen, keeping window glass clean. The burden of routine cleaning is also reduced.
Why Are Window Shutters Getting Attention in Rental Properties?
The primary reason is security. According to the "2017 Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department Report on Residential Burglary Incidents," window entry is the most common method of home intrusion, accounting for 61.3% of all cases.
Reports indicate that glass-breaking accounts for 21.7% in detached homes and 6.9% in mid-to-high-rise buildings, making window shutter installation an effective measure to prevent window entry.
What Types of Window Shutters Are Available?
Window shutters are categorized by operation method and design. The features and cost estimates for each are explained below.
Classification by Operation Method
| Type | Cost Estimate | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | ¥100,000–¥350,000 | Quiet operation via remote control. Some models include a timer function for enhanced security |
| Manual | ¥60,000–¥160,000 | Low-cost installation. No electrical work required and low risk of malfunction |
Classification by Design
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Closed Type | The most basic type. High light-blocking performance at a lower cost |
| Slit Type | Has gaps that allow light and ventilation even when closed |
| Blind Type | Angle-adjustable. Fully closed for complete blackout, 45° for moderate brightness. The most expensive option |
How to Find Rental Properties with Shutters?
There are mainly two ways to find rental properties with shutters.
Search on Rental Portal Sites
Sites like SUUMO and LIFULL HOME'S do not have a "shutter" filter option. Try using the free-text search and enter "shutter" or "rain shutter" to find listings. Note that properties will only appear if the feature is mentioned in the listing description.
Consult a Real Estate Agency Directly
If you cannot find what you need on portal sites, inform a real estate agency of your desired conditions. Along with requiring shutters, providing your area, floor plan preferences, and other conditions together increases the chance of being introduced to unlisted properties.
Note that shutter-equipped properties tend to have higher rent due to their well-equipped features and newer construction. You can reduce costs by expanding your acceptable distance from the nearest station or considering apartment-type units.
Is It Possible to Install Shutters in a Rental Property After Moving In?
It is possible, but permission from the real estate agency or landlord is always required. Since the installation is at the tenant's request, the cost of the shutter and labor is generally the tenant's responsibility. Be sure to confirm in advance whether restoration to the original condition will be required at move-out.
Estimated Installation Costs
| Type | Cost Estimate (per opening) |
|---|---|
| Sliding Door Type | ¥20,000–¥150,000 |
| Manual Type | ¥60,000–¥160,000 |
| Electric Type | ¥100,000–¥350,000 |
※ Installation on the 2nd floor or above requires additional scaffolding costs.
Which Shutter Should You Choose for a Rental Property?
Choose based on your purpose and lifestyle.
- Manual for cost-conscious choices: Keep costs down while still getting basic security and disaster-preparedness benefits
- Electric for security and convenience: Quiet remote-controlled operation. Timer function provides peace of mind even when away
- Electric to avoid noise issues: Motor-controlled operation is quiet, making it ideal for apartment buildings
When using an electric shutter in a household with young children, safety measures such as storing the remote control out of reach are necessary.
What Points Should You Be Aware of When Installing Shutters in a Rental?
Confirm the following points before installation.
- Check for rule violations: Review the terms of your contract and always obtain permission from your landlord and real estate agency
- Verify security performance: Electric shutters are difficult to pry open by hand, and burglars tend to give up when entry takes more than 5 minutes
- Consider the exterior appearance: Consult with your landlord and choose a design that does not detract from the building's aesthetics
What Are the Recommended Window Shutter Products?
Here are some recommended products that are easy to install even in rental properties.
- Sanwa Shutter "Madmore Screen GII": A standard model compatible with various building structures. Available in manual or electric
- LIXIL Residential Window Shutter (Electric): Designed with excellent security and wind resistance. Compatible with timer settings and smartphone operation
- Steel Shutter Electric Type: Highly quiet operation with a safety design that locks when forced open from the outside
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Do rental properties with shutters have higher rent?
In general, shutter-equipped properties tend to be priced slightly higher due to their well-equipped features and newer construction. You can reduce costs by expanding your acceptable distance from the nearest station.
Q. Can shutters be retrofitted to a rental property?
Installation is possible with the landlord's permission. However, the cost is in principle the tenant's responsibility, and it is necessary to confirm in advance whether restoration to the original condition will be required at move-out.
Q. Which is recommended: electric or manual shutters?
If you prioritize security and quiet operation, electric is recommended; if you want to keep costs down, manual is the better choice. In apartment buildings, electric shutters are preferred to prevent noise complaints.
Q. How effective are shutters for security?
According to Metropolitan Police Department data, 61.3% of home intrusions occur through windows. Because shutters take more time to break through, burglars are more likely to give up.
