B1 Writing · Lesson 13

Write a Formal Complaint Email

Learn to write a professional complaint that explains the problem, gives evidence, mentions previous action, and requests a fair solution.

B1Formal complaint email25 min110–120 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4

Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.

Write a formal complaint email with order/service details, a clear description of the problem, attempted solutions, impact, a reasonable request, and formal closing.

Model text

Dear Customer Service Team, I am writing to complain about a wireless speaker I ordered from your website last week. The package arrived on time, but the speaker does not charge properly and switches off after a few minutes. I followed the instructions in the manual and tried two different cables, but the problem remains. I contacted your online support yesterday, but I did not receive a useful solution. This is disappointing because I bought the speaker for an event this weekend. I would like either a replacement sent as soon as possible or a full refund. Please let me know how I should return the faulty item and whether you will cover the return cost. Kind regards, David Brown

How to write

1
Use a formal greeting and state the complaint

I am writing to complain about...

2
Give order or service details

I ordered...

3
Explain the problem clearly

The problem is...

4
Mention what you already tried and the impact

I followed the instructions...

5
Request a specific solution and close formally

However, the problem remains.

Useful phrases

I am writing to complain about...
I ordered...
The problem is...
I followed the instructions...
However, the problem remains.
This is disappointing because...
I would like...
a replacement
a full refund
Please let me know...
Kind regards,

Language focus

Build connected B1 writing:

Use clear topic sentences and support them with specific details.

Connect ideas with words such as because, however, for example, although, finally when they fit the task.

Develop, do not only list:

Explain why, add an example, or show a result.

Use a mix of simple and longer sentences, but keep every sentence easy to understand.

Remember:
At B1, your reader should be able to follow the text from beginning to end without guessing how the ideas connect.
Specific details and reasons make your writing stronger than general statements.
Exercises:
Exercise 1 · Language

Choose the best B1 language

Choose natural language that fits this writing task.

Practise useful language.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4

You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6 to complete this exercise.

1
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
2
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
3
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
4
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
5
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
6
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
Exercise 2 · Structure

Build the text in a clear order

Choose the clearest organisation for this type of B1 writing.

Practise the five-step structure.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4

You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6 to complete this exercise.

1
What should you do first?
2
What is the best second step?
3
Which step belongs in the middle of the text?
4
What should come before the final sentence or closing?
5
What is the best final step?
6
Which order is clearest?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write a Formal Complaint Email

Learn to write a professional complaint that explains the problem, gives evidence, mentions previous action, and requests a fair solution.

Complete the thirteenth B1 Writing lesson.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4

Write about 110–120 words and develop your ideas clearly.

Your task

Write a formal complaint email about a faulty product or poor service. Explain the problem and ask for a clear solution.

  • Use a formal greeting.
  • State what you are complaining about.
  • Give a specific order/service detail.
  • Explain the problem clearly.
  • Mention an action you already took.
  • Request a replacement, refund, repair, or other solution.
  • Use a formal closing.
I am writing to complain about...I ordered...The problem is...I followed the instructions...However, the problem remains.This is disappointing because...I would like...a replacementa full refundPlease let me know...Kind regards,
Your writing
0 words · Target: 110–120

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
Write about 110–120 words
State a complaint clearly
Give a purchase or service detail
Describe the problem
Mention what you tried
Request a solution
Use a formal closing
Use clear complete sentences and connected ideas
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