Initial Contact - Text/Email
The tenant drafts a message (text or email) to the landlord, briefly explaining the issue and asking about the best way to proceed.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
issue
A problem or concern, often minor. In this dialogue, it's used to politely describe a small household problem like a leak.
dripping
Leaking liquid slowly, drop by drop. Here, it describes a faucet that is leaking water, which is a common plumbing problem.
faucet
A device that controls the flow of water from a pipe, also called a tap in British English. It's essential for talking about kitchen or bathroom issues.
urgent
Needing immediate attention or action. Use it to explain that a problem is not serious, like 'It's not urgent' to avoid alarming the landlord.
availability
The times when someone is free or available. In rentals, landlords often ask for this to schedule repairs.
flexible
Able to change or adapt easily. Tenants might say they are flexible when discussing repair schedules to show cooperation.
heads-up
An informal warning or notice about something in advance. It's a casual way to thank someone for informing you early, common in American English.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
I wanted to let you know about a small issue at the apartment and see what the best way to get it fixed is.
This is a polite introduction to a problem. It uses 'wanted to' for indirect politeness (past tense softens the request) and 'see what the best way is' to ask for advice. Useful for starting emails or texts about non-emergency issues.
The faucet in the kitchen sink has started dripping pretty consistently.
Describes the problem clearly with present perfect 'has started' to show a recent change, and 'pretty consistently' means regularly but not always. Great for specifying household details without exaggeration.
It's not urgent, but I don't want it to get worse or waste water.
Downplays the issue with 'It's not urgent' while explaining reasons. The 'but' connects contrast, showing concern. Use this pattern to reassure while requesting action in similar situations.
Could you let me know your availability for a maintenance person to take a look?
A polite request using 'Could you' for questions. 'Take a look' means inspect briefly. This is useful for scheduling repairs, focusing on the tenant's schedule.
Sure, I work from home most days, so I'm pretty flexible.
Agrees and provides details with 'so' for logical connection. 'Pretty flexible' means quite adaptable. Ideal for responding to schedule requests, showing willingness to accommodate.
That sounds good. I'll check with our plumber and get back to you with a specific time.
Agrees with 'That sounds good' (informal positive response) and promises follow-up with 'get back to you.' Useful for confirming plans and maintaining communication in professional exchanges.
Thanks again for the heads-up!
Expresses repeated thanks with 'again,' and 'heads-up' means advance notice. This closing is polite and appreciative, perfect for ending messages about reported issues.