Key Takeaways
- Address the letter to the correct department or contact.
- Clearly state the problem with the product.
- Include specific details such as model number, purchase date, and warranty information.
- Attach proof of purchase and any previous correspondence.
- Be polite yet assertive; express your disappointment but remain professional.
- Specify the resolution you expect: a refund, replacement, or repair.
- Set a reasonable deadline for their response.
- Keep a copy of the letter and any related documents for your records.
Introduction
When you purchase a product, you expect it to function as advertised. However, sometimes you may find yourself with a defective item. The most effective way to address this is by writing a complaint letter to the company asking for a resolution.
This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to write a complaint letter for a defective product, complete with a template to get you started.
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Step 1: Start With Your Contact Information
Begin your letter by providing your name, address, and contact information at the top. This ensures the company can easily reach you to resolve the issue.
Step 2: Address the Letter Appropriately
Find out the name of the customer service manager or the head of the department and address the letter to them personally. If this information is not available, a general salutation such as “Dear Customer Service Team” is acceptable.
Step 3: Provide Details of the Purchase
In the first paragraph, give details of the product, including the model, serial number, and place and date of purchase. This information is crucial for validating your complaint.
Step 4: Describe the Problem
Be clear and concise when describing the issue with the product. State when and how you discovered the defect. If you’ve attempted any troubleshooting, mention this as well.
Real-life Example: “I purchased your XYZ headphones from your flagship store in New York on June 5th. Upon first use, I noticed the left earbud does not produce any sound, despite trying it on multiple devices.”
Step 5: Attach Supporting Documents
Attach copies of the receipt, warranty card, and any previous correspondence with the company regarding the issue. This provides proof and can expedite the resolution process.
Step 6: State the Desired Outcome
Clearly specify what you want – a refund, replacement, or repair. Be reasonable and fair in your request.
Step 7: Set a Deadline
Give the company a reasonable time frame to respond or resolve the issue, typically 14 to 30 days.
Step 8: Close the Letter Politely
End the letter by thanking them for their attention to the matter and sign off politely with your full name.
Step 9: Follow Up
If you don’t receive a response within the deadline, follow up with an email or phone call.
Template for Complaint Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Customer Service Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of a defect with [Product Name], which I purchased on [Purchase Date] from [Store Location or Online Platform].
Unfortunately, [describe the issue]. Despite [any troubleshooting actions taken], the problem persists. I have attached copies of my receipt, warranty card, and any previous correspondence related to this issue for your reference.
Given these circumstances, I would appreciate [a refund/a replacement/the repair of the product]. I believe this is a reasonable request under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Please contact me at your earliest convenience, ideally by [Deadline], to confirm the receipt of this letter and to outline the next steps towards a resolution.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature (if sending a hard copy)]
[Your Printed Name]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a complaint letter for a defective product?
Answer: A complaint letter for a defective product is a written document that is used to express dissatisfaction with a product that is not functioning properly or is not of the quality that was expected. It is usually addressed to the manufacturer or supplier of the product.
2. What information should be included in a complaint letter for a defective product?
Answer: In a complaint letter for a defective product, you should include:
- Your full name, address, and contact information
- The date of purchase and the name of the store or company where the product was bought
- A description of the product and the problem you are experiencing
- Evidence of the defect, such as photos or videos
- The consequences of the defect and how it has impacted you
- Your desired resolution, such as a repair, replacement, or refund
3. How to write a professional complaint letter for a defective product?
Answer: When writing a professional complaint letter for a defective product, it is important to:
- Use a formal tone and language
- Address the recipient properly
- Be clear and concise in your description of the problem
- Provide evidence of the defect
- Remain polite and avoid using aggressive language
- Request a specific resolution and provide a deadline for a response
- Keep a copy of the letter for your records
4. What is the purpose of a complaint letter for a defective product?
Answer: The purpose of a complaint letter for a defective product is to:
- Notify the manufacturer or supplier of the problem with the product
- Request a resolution to the problem, such as a repair, replacement, or refund
- Document the complaint for future reference, in case it becomes necessary to escalate the issue