Letter to a landlord about problems with a flat
This is a model answer written to show what a Band 7 response looks like against the marking criteria. It is a worked example, not a graded submission. To see your own band, paste your writing into the free checker.
The prompt
There are several problems with the flat you are renting that your landlord has not yet fixed. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter:
- describe the problems with the flat
- explain how they are affecting you
- say what you would like the landlord to do and when
Band 7 model answer (156 words)
Dear Mr Thompson,
I am writing about several problems with the flat at 14 Maple Road that still need your attention.
Over the past few weeks, a number of issues have appeared. The heating in the living room has stopped working, the tap in the bathroom leaks constantly, and there is now a patch of damp spreading on the bedroom ceiling. I reported the heating to you by phone two weeks ago, but so far nothing has been done.
These problems are making the flat difficult to live in. The lack of heating is a real concern now that the weather has turned cold, and the damp is beginning to affect our clothes and furniture. My family and I would be very grateful if you could arrange for a plumber and a heating engineer to visit as soon as possible, ideally within the next week.
Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind regards,
Laura Bennett
Why this reaches Band 7
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Task Achievement
All three bullet points are covered: the specific problems, how they affect the writer, and a clear request with a timeframe.
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Coherence and Cohesion
The letter is logically ordered from problems to impact to request, with clear paragraphing.
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Lexical Resource
Appropriate semi-formal vocabulary such as "still need your attention", "a real concern" and "as soon as possible".
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Controlled complex sentences and a consistent, polite tone, with the correct named greeting and "Kind regards" sign-off.
The one fix to reach Band 7
A Band 6 semi-formal letter often drifts between casual and formal, or leaves one bullet thin. The key fix is to hold one warm but respectful tone throughout and give each of the three bullet points a clear, developed sentence.
Now check your own answer.
Paste your own attempt at this prompt and Examinerly names the single criterion keeping you below your target band, and shows the sentence-level fix. We never inflate your band.
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