English - Renting an Apartment

I'm interested in the apartment on ___.

expressing interest in a rental listing

Meaning: Expressing interest in a rental listing.

When to use: Use this to open a message or call when you want more information about a specific listing.

Tip: Sometimes learners use 'at' instead of 'on' for street names (say 'on Elm Street').

Is the apartment still available?

asking if a rental is available

Meaning: Asking if a rental is available.

When to use: Use this when you contact the advertiser to confirm the unit has not been rented yet.

How much is the rent per month?

asking about monthly cost

Meaning: Asking about monthly cost.

When to use: Use this to find out how much you must pay each month.

Are utilities included in the rent?

asking what is included in rent

Meaning: Asking what is included in rent.

When to use: Ask this to clarify whether bills (water, gas, electricity, internet) are included.

Tip: Learners sometimes answer 'yes' or 'no' without specifying which utilities are included; ask for specifics if needed.

How much is the security deposit?

asking about upfront payment

Meaning: Asking about upfront payment.

When to use: Ask this to learn how much money you must pay before moving in.

When can I come see the apartment?

arranging a viewing

Meaning: Arranging a viewing.

When to use: Use this to ask when you can visit and see the apartment in person.

Could you send me the address and photos?

requesting listing details

Meaning: Requesting listing details.

When to use: Use this to ask for the exact address and photos before visiting.

How long is the lease?

asking about lease length

Meaning: Asking about lease length.

When to use: Ask this to understand the required commitment (months or years).

Is there ___ in the building?

asking about building features

Meaning: Asking about building features (use blank to add an amenity).

When to use: Use this frame to ask about specific amenities in the building. Replace the blank with 'parking', 'elevator', 'laundry', etc.

Tip: Beginners sometimes leave the blank empty; remember to say the specific amenity: 'Is there parking in the building?'

I'd like to fill out an application.

starting the rental application process

Meaning: Starting the rental application process.

When to use: Say this when you want to move forward and fill out the formal application.

What is the earliest move-in date?

Ask about the earliest possible move-in time.

Meaning: Asking about the earliest possible move-in time.

When to use: Use this to find out the soonest date you could move into the apartment.

Is the apartment furnished or unfurnished?

Ask whether the home includes furniture.

Meaning: Asking whether the home includes furniture.

When to use: Use this to know if the apartment is sold with furniture or not.

Are pets allowed?

Ask about permission to keep animals in the rental.

Meaning: Asking about permission to keep animals in the rental.

When to use: Use this to confirm the building's pet policy before you bring a pet.