Step by step
Reconstruct the agreement
Collect the quote, contract, advert, messages, price, promised date and description of the service.
Describe the failure factually
Use dates, locations, photographs and specific differences between what was agreed and delivered. Separate inconvenience from measurable loss.
Request a proportionate remedy
State the repair, repeat performance, price reduction or other outcome you seek and a reasonable response deadline. Check current nation-specific rights.
Send and preserve
Use the trader’s formal complaints route, keep a copy and proof of delivery, and record calls immediately afterward.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Agreement and payment evidence saved
- Failure described with dates
- Photographs or expert evidence attached
- Requested remedy stated
- Response deadline included
- Proof of sending retained
Common problems
The trader responds only by phone
Write back summarising the call, agreed actions and dates, and ask them to correct anything inaccurate.
Remedial work could cause further damage
Ask for the proposed method and competence; obtain advice before allowing repeated work where safety or major property damage is possible.
UK sources and scope
Checked 27 September 2026. Details may vary by nation, provider and circumstances; follow the linked official or specialist source for the current position.