Talking to a Neighbour

Practice friendly chats in the hallway, asking small favours, and handling common neighbour situations.

Dialogue Sample

A: Oh hi! I don't think we've properly met — I just moved in next door. I'm Lisa.

B: Hi Lisa, welcome to the building! I'm Sam. How are you settling in?

A: Pretty well, thanks! Still unpacking boxes. Do you know what day the bins go out?

B: Recycling is Tuesday morning, general waste is Friday. Just leave them out the night before.

A: Oh that's really helpful, thank you! And is there a laundry room in the building?

B: Yes — it's in the basement, code is 4421. The machines are free on weekday mornings.

A: Amazing, I'll remember that. Thanks so much, Sam!

B: Any time! If you need anything, just knock.

Natural Phrases to Know

Meeting and greeting

I don't think we've met — I'm [name]. I just moved in next door / upstairs. How long have you lived here? It's nice to finally meet you! We must have different schedules — I keep missing you!

Asking small favours

Sorry to bother you, but... Could I borrow some [item]? Would you mind keeping an eye on my place? Could you take in a parcel if I'm not home? I'll return the favour!

Raising a concern politely

I hope you don't mind me mentioning this... There's been a bit of noise late at night — is everything okay? I think your post might have ended up in my letterbox. No rush — just whenever you get a chance.

Friendly sign-offs

Good to see you! Take care! If you ever need anything, just knock. We'll have to catch up properly sometime. See you around!

Your Turn — Fill in the Blanks

You are Speaker B. Read A's lines and type what you would say.

A: Oh, hi there! I keep running into you in the lift. I'm Maya from flat 4B.

A: So nice to meet you! Have you lived here long?

A: I just moved in last month! Actually, I've been meaning to ask — do you know where to park around here?

A: Oh that's so helpful, thank you! Sorry to keep you — I'll let you go.