Understanding When to End a Contract Due to Poor Work
When you hire a service provider – such as a builder, decorator, or repair company – you expect the work to meet reasonable standards. Poor work can include incomplete jobs, careless workmanship, use of substandard materials, or failing to follow agreed plans. Sometimes, a pattern of missed deadlines, broken promises, or repeated mistakes can cause you to lose faith in the provider’s ability to deliver what was agreed. When trust breaks down, it may be appropriate to consider ending the contract.
What is “poor work” and “loss of faith”?
Poor work means the service provided doesn’t meet the standard a reasonable person would expect, or it doesn’t match what was agreed in your contract. This could be work that’s unfinished, faulty, or not carried out with reasonable care and skill. Losing faith in a provider often happens when problems are ongoing and attempts to fix them haven’t worked, making you doubt whether the provider can or will put things right.
Why documentation matters
If you’re thinking about ending a contract, it’s vital to keep clear records. Save copies of all correspondence, take dated photographs of poor workmanship, and note down any missed appointments or broken promises. Also, record your attempts to resolve the issues – such as emails asking for repairs or meetings to discuss concerns. This documentation will support your case if you need to escalate the matter or seek a refund.
Your rights under UK consumer law
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 protects you when you pay for services. By law, services must be provided with reasonable care and skill, within a reasonable time, and for a reasonable price (if not agreed beforehand). If the service is unsatisfactory, you have the right to ask for it to be put right at no extra cost. If the provider fails to fix the issue in a reasonable time, or if the problem is serious, you can ask for a price reduction or even end the contract and seek a refund.
When is it appropriate to end a contract?
Ending a contract is a serious step and is usually appropriate if:
The work is so poor or incomplete that it can’t be fixed easily.
Repeated attempts to resolve the problem have failed.
You no longer trust the provider to finish the job properly.
In some cases, it may be better to give the provider a final chance to put things right before ending the contract. If you’re unsure, you might want to read more about what to do if a paid service has not been completed, as this covers your options for incomplete or poor-quality work.
Clear communication is key
To avoid misunderstandings, always communicate your concerns in writing. Explain clearly what the problems are, what you expect the provider to do, and set reasonable deadlines for a response. If you decide to end the contract, a formal letter helps show you’ve acted fairly and given the provider a chance to resolve the issue.
For more advice and other sample letters to help you deal with service-related problems, explore our letter templates for problems with services.
What Counts as Poor Work and Lost Faith?
What Counts as Poor Work and Lost Faith?
When you hire someone to provide a service – whether it’s building work, repairs, cleaning, or any other professional service – you have certain rights under UK law. Understanding what counts as poor work and when it’s reasonable to say you’ve lost faith in a provider can help you decide if ending a contract is the right step.
What Is Poor Work?
Poor work means the service you received does not meet the standard you were promised or could reasonably expect. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, any service provided must be carried out:
With reasonable care and skill
Within a reasonable time (if a time frame hasn’t been agreed)
For a reasonable charge (if the price hasn’t been agreed)
If the work is not up to scratch, this could include:
Substandard quality: The finished job is not fit for purpose, looks unprofessional, or doesn’t work as it should. For example, a plumber leaves a leak unfixed, or a decorator leaves paint splatters everywhere.
Missed deadlines: The provider repeatedly misses agreed deadlines or takes much longer than promised, causing inconvenience or extra costs.
Unprofessional behaviour: The service provider is rude, unreliable, or fails to communicate important information about delays or problems.
Incomplete work: The job is left unfinished, or the provider does not return to complete agreed tasks.
Ignoring instructions: The provider does not follow your reasonable requests or agreed specifications.
When Does Poor Work Lead to Lost Faith?
Lost faith means you no longer trust the provider to put things right, even if they offer to fix the problems. This often happens when:
The same issues keep happening, even after you’ve raised concerns.
Promises to improve or finish the job are repeatedly broken.
The provider’s attitude or behaviour makes you feel uncomfortable or disrespected.
You have to chase the provider constantly for updates or corrections.
It’s not just one mistake that leads to lost faith. Usually, it’s a pattern of poor service, broken promises, or negative experiences that make you feel you can’t rely on the provider any longer.
Practical Examples
Here are some real-life examples of poor work and lost faith:
A builder leaves a job half-finished and does not respond to calls or emails.
A cleaning company regularly misses appointments and does not meet agreed standards, despite repeated feedback.
An IT contractor delivers faulty work and fails to fix issues after several attempts.
A decorator is rude and dismissive when you point out mistakes, making you feel uncomfortable about having them in your home.
Your Rights and Next Steps
If you’re experiencing poor work and have lost faith in your service provider, you have the right to end the contract under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. You should keep records of what’s happened, including photos, emails, and notes of conversations. This will help support your case if you need to explain your reasons for ending the contract.
Remember, you should give the provider a fair chance to put things right, unless their actions have made it clear that further attempts would not resolve the issues or you no longer feel comfortable dealing with them. In these situations, ending the contract may be the best option to protect your interests.
Your Consumer Rights When Ending a Contract
Your Consumer Rights When Ending a Contract
When you hire someone to provide a service – such as building work, decorating, or repairs – you have clear protections under UK law if things go wrong. If the work is substandard and you’ve lost confidence in the provider, it’s important to understand your rights before taking steps to end the contract.
Key Rights Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 sets out your main protections when you pay for a service. The law says that all services must be carried out:
With reasonable care and skill
Within a reasonable time (if no specific timeframe is agreed)
For a reasonable price (if no price is agreed beforehand)
If the service you receive falls short of these standards – for example, if the work is poorly done, left unfinished, or not as agreed – you have the right to ask the provider to put things right. This might mean asking them to redo the work or fix the problems at no extra cost.
Your Right to Reject Unsatisfactory Services
If the provider cannot or will not fix the issues, or if you have lost faith in their ability to do the job properly, you may be entitled to end the contract. You can also seek a partial or full refund, depending on how much of the service was completed and the extent of the problems.
In some situations, you may need to give the provider one final chance to put things right, unless the problems are serious enough to justify immediate cancellation. Always check what your contract says about ending the agreement early.
The Importance of Keeping Records
To protect yourself, keep clear records of everything related to the work. This includes:
Written contracts or agreements
Emails, messages, and notes from phone calls
Photos of the work (especially any problems)
Copies of invoices and receipts
Having this evidence will help if you need to prove your case, whether you’re negotiating with the provider, making a complaint, or considering further action.
How Consumer Rights Compare Across Services
While the Consumer Rights Act 2015 covers most service contracts, it’s worth noting that different rules may apply to other types of agreements, such as insurance. For more on how your rights compare in these situations, see our guide to consumer rights and insurance policies.
By understanding your rights and keeping good records, you’ll be in a strong position to end a contract fairly and resolve problems with poor service.
When to Consider Ending the Contract
Ending a contract because of poor work or lost trust is a serious step, and it’s important to know when it’s justified. Generally, you may have the right to end a contract if the service provider has breached the terms in a significant way – such as failing to carry out the work with reasonable care and skill, or not delivering what was agreed. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, if a service isn’t provided with reasonable care and skill, or as described, you’re entitled to ask for the work to be redone or for a price reduction. If the problems are serious and ongoing, you may be able to bring the contract to an end.
Before deciding to terminate, consider whether there are alternative steps you could take. Often, it’s best to start by making a formal complaint to the provider, outlining what’s gone wrong and giving them the chance to put things right. You can request that the faults be fixed, or ask for a partial refund if the work is below standard. This approach can sometimes resolve the issue without the need to end the contract entirely.
If delays are the main problem, or if the provider keeps missing deadlines, it’s important to formally set a final deadline for completion – this is known as making time of the essence in service contracts. By doing this in writing, you make it clear that if the provider doesn’t complete the work by the new deadline, you reserve the right to end the contract. This step can strengthen your position if you later need to terminate, as it shows you’ve given the provider a fair chance to put things right.
However, ending a contract too soon or without proper grounds can have consequences. You might be liable for cancellation fees, or the provider could claim you’ve breached the contract. It’s essential to check the terms and conditions of your agreement, and make sure you’ve followed any required procedures for raising complaints or giving notice. Keep records of all communications in case you need to show evidence later.
In summary, ending a contract should usually be a last resort, after you’ve tried to resolve the issue directly with the provider and, where relevant, set a clear deadline for fixes. If you’re unsure about your rights or the risks involved, you may wish to seek professional advice before taking action.
How to Write a Letter to End a Contract Due to Poor Work and Lost Faith
When you need to end a contract because of poor service and a loss of trust, it’s important to communicate your decision clearly and professionally. A well-written letter not only sets out your reasons but also helps protect your legal position. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write an effective letter to end your contract:
1. Use a Clear and Formal Structure
Start your letter with your name, address, and the date. Include the recipient’s name, company, and address. Use a clear subject line such as “Termination of Contract Due to Poor Work and Loss of Trust”.
Example:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Subject: Termination of Contract Due to Poor Work and Loss of Trust
2. State the Purpose of the Letter
Begin by stating that you are writing to formally end the contract. Be direct but polite, making it clear that your decision is final.
Example:
“I am writing to inform you that I am terminating our contract for [describe service, e.g., kitchen refurbishment] with immediate effect.”
3. Clearly Explain Your Reasons
Under UK law, such as the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have a right to expect services to be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If the work has been substandard or not as agreed, you are within your rights to end the contract.
Be specific about the problems you have experienced. Detail what was unsatisfactory and how it has affected your trust in the provider. Mention any attempts you made to resolve the issues before deciding to end the contract.
Example:
“The work carried out on [date(s)] was not completed to the standard promised in our agreement dated [contract date]. Despite raising my concerns on [list dates], the issues remain unresolved. As a result, I have lost confidence in your ability to complete the work satisfactorily.”
4. Include Relevant Dates, Contract Details, and Evidence
To avoid confusion, refer clearly to the original contract, including the date it was signed and any reference numbers. List the dates when the poor work occurred and when you raised complaints. If you have evidence such as photos, emails, or reports, mention these in the letter and state that you can provide copies if needed.
Example:
“This letter refers to our contract dated [contract date], reference number [if applicable]. I have attached copies of my previous correspondence and photographs showing the issues.”
5. Use a Polite but Firm Tone
Even if you are dissatisfied, it’s important to remain professional. Avoid personal attacks or emotional language. A polite but firm tone helps maintain your credibility and can be important if the matter escalates.
Example:
“While I appreciate your previous efforts, the ongoing issues mean I can no longer continue with this contract.”
6. Request Confirmation of Contract Termination
Ask the provider to confirm in writing that the contract has been terminated. This creates a clear record and avoids misunderstandings.
Example:
“Please confirm in writing that the contract is now terminated and that no further work will be carried out. I would also appreciate confirmation of any next steps regarding outstanding payments or the return of any deposits.”
7. Keep a Copy
Always keep a copy of your letter and any evidence you send. If you post the letter, consider using recorded delivery so you have proof it was received.
By following these steps, you ensure your letter is clear, detailed, and legally sound. This approach helps protect your rights and makes it more likely you will resolve the issue efficiently. If you are unsure about your legal position or the contract terms, you may wish to seek further advice.
Essential Elements to Include in Your Letter
When writing a letter to end a contract because of poor work and lost faith, it’s important to be clear, detailed, and professional. Including the right elements not only strengthens your position but also helps ensure your request is handled efficiently. Here’s what your letter should contain:
1. Your Full Contact Details and the Provider’s Details
At the top of your letter, include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Directly below, add the service provider’s name, business address, and any relevant contact information. This ensures there’s no confusion about who the letter is from and who it is addressed to.
Example:
Your Name
Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address
[Date]
Provider’s Name
Provider’s Business Address
2. Contract Reference or Agreement Number
Clearly state the contract number, reference, or any unique identifier associated with your agreement. This helps the provider locate your records quickly and avoids delays.
Example:
Re: Contract Reference No. 12345
3. Detailed Description of the Poor Work and Breach
Explain specifically what aspects of the service were unsatisfactory. Reference dates, promised outcomes, or standards outlined in your contract. For example, if a builder failed to complete work to an agreed standard, mention the relevant clauses or expectations.
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If the work falls short, you have the right to expect a remedy or, in some cases, to end the contract.
Example:
The work carried out on [date(s)] did not meet the standards set out in our agreement, specifically [describe the issues, e.g., incomplete installation, poor workmanship, or use of substandard materials]. This is a breach of our contract and does not meet the requirements of the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
4. Reference to Previous Complaints or Attempts to Resolve
If you have already raised your concerns or given the provider a chance to fix the problem, mention this in your letter. Include dates and a brief summary of your previous communications or any responses received.
Example:
I previously contacted you on [date] regarding these issues, but the problems remain unresolved. Despite giving you the opportunity to rectify the situation, the service has not improved.
5. Clear Statement Ending the Contract
Be direct and unambiguous. State that, due to the poor service and loss of trust, you are exercising your right to end the contract. This makes your intentions clear and helps prevent any misunderstanding.
Example:
As a result of the ongoing issues and my loss of confidence in your ability to complete the work to the agreed standard, I am formally ending our contract with immediate effect.
6. Request for Confirmation and Any Applicable Refund
Ask the provider to confirm in writing that the contract has been terminated. If you believe you are entitled to a refund – such as for work not completed or not up to standard – state this clearly. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you may be entitled to a partial or full refund if the service was not provided as agreed.
Example:
Please confirm in writing that our contract has been terminated. I also request a refund for the portion of the service that was not completed to a satisfactory standard.
Including these essential elements will help ensure your letter is effective and can be used as evidence if you need to escalate the matter or seek further advice. Always keep a copy of your letter and any correspondence for your records.
Sample Letter Template
Sample Letter Template
If you have received poor service and lost confidence in your provider, it is important to end the contract in a clear and professional way. Below is a sample letter template you can use to notify the provider of your decision. This template is designed to be straightforward and adaptable – simply fill in your own details where indicated.
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you are entitled to expect services to be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If the provider has failed to meet this standard, you may have the right to end the contract and request a refund or compensation.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Service Provider’s Name]
[Provider’s Address]
[Postcode]
Subject: Termination of Contract Due to Poor Work and Loss of Confidence
Dear [Provider’s Name],
I am writing to formally notify you that I am ending our contract for [brief description of service, e.g. kitchen installation, garden landscaping], dated [contract start date], due to unsatisfactory work and loss of trust in your services.
I have previously raised my concerns regarding the quality of work, specifically [briefly describe the issues, e.g. incomplete installation, use of substandard materials, missed deadlines]. Despite giving you an opportunity to address these issues, the problems remain unresolved.
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, I am entitled to expect that services are provided with reasonable care and skill. Unfortunately, this standard has not been met, and I no longer have confidence that the work will be completed to an acceptable level.
As a result, I am terminating our contract with immediate effect. Please consider this letter as formal notice. I request that you:
Cease all further work on the project,
Arrange for the return of any property or keys belonging to me,
Provide a final invoice or statement, if applicable,
Confirm in writing that you acknowledge the termination.
If you believe I am owed a refund or compensation for the poor service, please outline the details in your response.
Please respond within [reasonable time frame, e.g. 14 days] to confirm you have received this letter and to address the points above. If I do not hear from you, I will consider taking further action.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
Practical Advice:
Keep a copy of this letter and any related correspondence for your records.
Send the letter by recorded delivery or email so you have proof it was received.
Be clear and specific about the issues you have faced and the steps you have already taken to resolve them.
If the provider disputes your claim or refuses to cooperate, you may wish to seek further advice or escalate the matter.
Common Questions:
Do I need to give notice before ending the contract?
Check your contract for any notice requirements. However, if the service provider has seriously breached the contract, you may be entitled to end it immediately.
Can I claim a refund or compensation?
Yes, if the work was not carried out with reasonable care and skill, you may be entitled to a price reduction, repeat performance, or a refund under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
What if the provider disputes my claim?
If you cannot resolve the issue directly, you can consider using an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme or seek legal advice.
Remember, being polite but firm in your letter can help keep the process professional and improve your chances of a positive outcome.
Next Steps After Sending Your Contract Termination Letter
After you’ve sent your contract termination letter, it’s important to know what comes next and how to protect your rights. Here’s what you can expect and the steps you should follow:
Keep Records and Proof of Delivery
Always keep a copy of the letter you sent, along with any related correspondence and documents. If you sent your letter by recorded delivery, tracked post, or email, keep the delivery receipt or confirmation. This evidence is crucial if there’s any dispute about whether or when the provider received your notice.
What to Expect from the Service Provider
Once your letter is received, the service provider may respond in several ways:
Acceptance: They may accept your decision to end the contract and confirm the termination date. They might also arrange for any final payments or return of goods.
Negotiation: Sometimes, the provider may try to resolve the issue by offering a solution, such as correcting the poor work, providing a partial refund, or offering a discount.
Dispute: In some cases, the provider might disagree with your reasons for ending the contract or refuse to accept the termination.
If the Provider Disputes or Refuses Termination
If the provider challenges your decision to end the contract, refer back to your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This law gives you the right to expect services to be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If the service has been poor and you’ve lost trust, you are usually entitled to end the contract and seek a refund or compensation.
If the provider refuses to cooperate, you can:
Reiterate your rights and provide copies of your previous correspondence.
Gather evidence, such as photographs of poor workmanship or expert reports.
Consider making a formal complaint to the provider’s trade association or an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme, if available.
Seeking Further Help
If you’re unable to resolve the issue directly with the provider, or if you need advice on your next steps, consider getting more help with consumer issues. This can give you guidance on your legal rights, how to escalate your complaint, and what to do if you’re considering legal action.
By staying organised and knowing your rights, you can handle contract disputes with confidence and increase the chances of a fair outcome.
Dealing with Disputes or Non-Compliance
When you decide to end a contract because of poor work and a loss of trust, the service provider may not always accept your decision. They might dispute your reasons, claim the issues aren’t serious enough, or argue that you haven’t given them a fair chance to put things right. If this happens, it’s important to know your options and how to protect your position.
Responding to Challenges
If the provider challenges your termination, start by clearly restating your reasons in writing. Refer to specific problems with the service and explain how they breach the terms of your contract or fall short of the standards set out in the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This law gives you the right to expect services to be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If these standards haven’t been met, you may be entitled to end the contract and claim a refund or compensation.
Keeping Evidence and Records
Throughout the dispute, keep detailed records. Save all correspondence, contracts, receipts, photographs of poor workmanship, and notes of any conversations. These documents will be crucial if you need to prove your case later, whether in mediation or in court.
Exploring Resolution Options
If direct communication doesn’t resolve the issue, consider these steps:
Mediation: This is a way to resolve disputes without going to court. An independent mediator helps both sides reach an agreement. Mediation can be quicker, less stressful, and less expensive than legal action.
Formal Complaints: You can escalate your complaint to any relevant trade association or ombudsman scheme if the provider is a member. These bodies can review your case and may help you reach a fair outcome.
Legal Action: If all else fails, you may need to take legal action to enforce your rights. This could involve making a claim in the small claims court for money owed or compensation. Make sure you have all your evidence organised before taking this step.
If the provider refuses to accept your termination or you’re unsure about your next steps, you can find further guidance on cancelling a breached contract. This resource explains your rights when a contract has been broken and offers practical advice on what to do next.
Remember, standing your ground is easier when you have clear evidence and a good understanding of your legal rights. Taking a calm, methodical approach will help you resolve the dispute as smoothly as possible.
Seeking Compensation or Damages
When a service has been poorly carried out and you have lost trust in the provider, you may be entitled to seek compensation or damages. Under UK consumer law, particularly the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have the right to expect services to be performed with reasonable care and skill. If the service falls short of this standard, you may be able to claim back some or all of the money paid, or seek compensation for any additional losses caused by the poor work.
When Can You Claim Damages?
You can claim damages if the service provider has:
Failed to use reasonable care and skill;
Not delivered what was agreed in the contract;
Misrepresented what they would provide, leading you to make a decision you wouldn’t have otherwise made.
If the service was misrepresented – meaning you were given false or misleading information before entering into the contract – you have additional rights. Misrepresentation can entitle you to cancel the contract and claim damages for any losses you’ve suffered as a result.
Including a Claim for Damages in Your Letter
When writing to end your contract, it’s important to clearly state any losses or extra costs you have incurred due to the poor service. Be specific – list what went wrong, how it affected you, and what financial impact it has had. For example, if you had to pay another provider to fix the work, include these costs in your claim.
You can include your claim for damages within your termination letter, outlining the amount you are seeking and the reasons why. This makes your expectations clear from the outset and provides a record of your claim.
For further help with this process, you may find it useful to read more about claiming damages for misrepresented services.
When to Make a Formal Claim or Complaint
If the service provider does not respond to your letter, or refuses to resolve the issue, you may need to escalate your complaint. This could involve:
Making a formal complaint through the provider’s complaints procedure;
Seeking help from an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme;
Considering legal action if the issue remains unresolved.
Before taking further steps, make sure you have kept copies of all correspondence and evidence of the poor work or losses suffered.
Your Consumer Rights in Cases of Misrepresentation
Under the Misrepresentation Act 1967, if you were misled into entering a contract by false statements, you may be able to cancel the contract and claim compensation. This applies whether the misrepresentation was made intentionally, negligently, or innocently.
Knowing your rights and clearly setting out your claim can help you achieve a fair outcome when ending a contract due to poor work and lost faith.
Managing Related Issues Like Delays or Billing Problems
When you’re considering ending a contract due to poor service and lost trust, it’s common to face other issues like repeated delays or disputes over bills. Addressing these problems clearly and promptly can sometimes resolve matters without needing to end the contract, or at least strengthen your case if you decide to do so.
Dealing with Service Delays
Service delays are a frequent source of frustration. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill, and within a reasonable time if no specific timeframe is agreed. If your provider fails to meet agreed deadlines or leaves you waiting without explanation, you have the right to complain and request a resolution.
Before moving to end your contract, it’s often best to raise a formal complaint about the delay. This gives the provider a chance to put things right and shows you’ve acted reasonably. You can use a ready-made template for complaining about service delays to make your concerns clear and document your efforts.
Handling Billing Disputes
Billing problems – such as being overcharged, billed for services not received, or unclear charges – are another common issue. If you notice a mistake on your bill, contact your provider as soon as possible and keep a record of your communication. Clearly explain what’s wrong and what outcome you expect, such as a corrected bill or a refund.
If your initial complaint doesn’t resolve the issue, you can escalate it with a formal letter. Use our guide to complaining about phone, TV or internet bills to help you set out your case effectively.
Support If You’re Struggling with Bills
Sometimes, unexpected service issues can make it harder to keep up with payments, especially if you’re disputing charges or waiting for a resolution. If you’re finding it difficult to pay your phone, internet, or TV bills, there is help with paying phone, internet or TV bills available. You may be able to access payment plans, support schemes, or advice to manage your bills while your complaint is being sorted out.
By tackling related issues like delays and billing problems promptly and following the right steps, you put yourself in a stronger position – whether you want to resolve the dispute or move towards ending your contract. Always keep written records of your communications and refer to your legal rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 to support your case.
Complaining Before Ending a Contract
Before you decide to end a contract because of poor work or lost trust, it’s important to try resolving the issue by making a formal complaint. Under UK consumer law – specifically the Consumer Rights Act 2015 – you have the right to expect services to be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If these standards aren’t met, you are entitled to ask the provider to put things right. In many cases, a clear and well-structured complaint can lead to a satisfactory resolution without needing to terminate the contract.
Start by setting out your concerns in writing. This creates a record of your complaint and gives the provider a fair chance to fix the problem. You might find it helpful to use a template when complaining about poor quality work or complaining about poor service. These templates help you explain what went wrong, what you expect to happen next, and how the provider can resolve the issue.
If your complaint relates to legal services, or you want to see how a formal complaint is structured, you can refer to this formal complaint letter template. It offers a useful example of how to set out your concerns in a professional and effective way.
Taking these steps not only demonstrates that you have tried to resolve the problem reasonably, but it also strengthens your position if you later decide to end the contract or seek further action. Often, a well-documented complaint leads to a solution – such as a repair, redo, or partial refund – without the stress of terminating the agreement. If the provider fails to address your concerns after a formal complaint, you’ll be in a stronger position to end the contract and seek further remedies.