Letter sample 6

There are many standard phrases used in polite letters.

making requests

• I am writing to request ...
• Would you mind ... ing?
• Would it be possible to ...?
• I would be extremely grateful if you could ...
• I was wondering if you could ...

apologising and asking for understanding

• I am afraid that ...
• Unfortunately, ...
• I hope you can understand (my situation).
• I am sorry for any inconvenience caused.

showing understanding

• I understand/realise that ...
• I am aware that ...

introducing information

• As you know, ...
• As I am sure you are aware, ...

closing

• Yours sincerely/Yours faithfully
• I look forward to hearing from you soon.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an apartment. You left the apartment in good condition but the Landlord will not return your deposit.

Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter

explain why you are writing

ask for the return of your deposit

inform the landlord of possible legal action

Write at least 150 words.

Model answer

Using connecting expressions, complete this sample answer.

Dear Mr. Coleman,

I am writing to request the return of the £800 deposit that I paid to you before I rented No. 21, Britannia Court for the month of April. When I telephoned your office I was told that you are not intending to repay this money and I am unable to understand the reason for this.

When I signed the rental agreement it was my understanding that the deposit would be returned if the apartment was vacated dean and undamaged. This was the condition of the flat when I returned the keys. I cleaned the whole apartment and there were no breakages and no damage to fittings or furniture.

I believe that I have kept to the terms of the agreement and therefore I respectfully request that my deposit be repaid in full. I shall have no alternative but to seek legal advice if we are unable to resolve this matter in a satisfactory manner.

Yours sincerely,
Steve Chapman

(161 words)