Everyone has complaints. Whether it be with the quality of service you received or dissatisfaction with a business’s policy, there are ways to express your concerns to maximize success. If you have an issue with a particular business, here are some tips on how to make an effective complaint.
The first step
Try to resolve the problem with the business first. If the business has complaints or customer service department, try going there to voice your concerns. Explain why you are not satisfied and give the business a chance to fix the problem. Be polite and firm, but not threatening.
If the problem persists
If the problem is not resolved, try writing a letter to the business’s manager or a supervisor. Clearly state your complaint and explain what you feel a fair resolution would be. Sometimes using a timeline is a great way to outline your complaint. Make sure you include a timeframe as to when you expect a reply. Be reasonable.
Remember, it is important to keep all receipts, contracts, written letters and responses. This may help if you need to escalate the matter to a lawyer or to small claims court. Also, be proactive. Contact the business once you become dissatisfied so that you resolve the situation in a timely manner. Many businesses have policies that are time sensitive.
ADDITIONAL READING:
What is a “quality of service” issue and what can you do about it?
Resolving small claims strata disputes online: what to expect from the CRT
How to write a letter to your MLA
I found out when trying to cancel my TD Merchant Service that I have a 3 year contract with them. Origionally it was 1 year and then year to year. They sent a letter in 2009 (which I don’t remeber seeing) that they were making it a 3 year contract (not signiture or proof I received the letter) and that it was my responsibility to contact them if I didn’t want this. Now they want to charge me a cancellation fee or a monthly fee until May 19, 2013. Is this legal? Can they change a contract without your knowledge? They said since I received statements then the address is correct and I must have received it. I don’t think so.
Can I do anything about this?
What do i need to do. I have a fraudulent collections on my credit report by a fraudulent company with horrible reviews as being a fraud (CBCC) claiming to be collecting on behalf of Fraser Health. I contacted all of Fraser Health, billing, accounts receivable and they stated I do not owe them nor have I ever owed them any money and that it appears to be fraud. I asked them to verify this in writing via email. What can I do? I contacted equifax and am on hold. How can any crap company do this to ppl? Disgusting. I want to sue them.
Hi P! we don’t have the ability to tell you whether or not a debt is legitimate or not. If you don’t believe you owe the debt, you have the right to dispute it. This means you are asking to have the debt taken to court for resolution. Visit this page on our website for info on how to do that, including the proper forms to use: https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/consumer-help/debt-collection/