Intermediate (B1/B2)

Expat Life & Relocation — Ep 3: Real English Conversation: Confronting Your Landlord | English B1-B2

Conversation Script

Tenant

I just noticed the contract says utilities are included, but you're charging me extra.

Landlord

That's not what we agreed on, actually. The lease only covers water and heating.

Tenant

Wait, really? Because the listing clearly mentioned all utilities were part of the rent.

Landlord

Listings can be misleading sometimes, but the signed lease is what actually counts legally.

Tenant

I get that, but I moved here from abroad and trusted what was advertised online.

Landlord

I understand that's frustrating, especially when you're still adjusting to a new country.

Tenant

Exactly, and now I'm stuck paying way more than I budgeted for each month.

Landlord

Let's not jump to conclusions. Maybe we can find a compromise on the electricity bill.

Tenant

That would help a lot, since my salary hasn't caught up with the cost of living yet.

Landlord

I could knock off twenty percent if you agree to renew the lease for another year.

Tenant

That sounds fair, but I'd like everything in writing this time, just to avoid confusion.

Landlord

Fair enough, I'll draft an updated agreement and send it over by tomorrow morning.

Tenant

Thanks, I really appreciate you being flexible instead of just brushing off my concerns.

Landlord

No problem. Communication goes both ways, and I'd rather keep a good tenant happy.