A house is in essence an apartment that is self-contained and a residential unit. It occupies a smaller portion of a building and usually on one level. There are various names used for these buildings, check the glossary at the end of this article. The majority of apartments are one-story with some having two or three levels. Because they are all built on the same property they have common plumbing systems and electrical systems. It is possible to inquire with the building manager about the type of apartment you're renting. It's contingent on the location you live in.