IELTS HUB
Formal Complaint Letter #269
GT Writing Task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You travelled by a long-distance bus recently and your suitcase was damaged.

Write a letter to the bus company. In your letter,

  • inform the bus company of when and to where you travelled
  • describe your suitcase and what happened to it
  • explain why the company should pay for a new suitcase

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses at the top of your letter.

Begin your letter as follows: Dear ……………,

One box per bullet, then compare with Band 9.
186 words · 3 body paragraphs
Opening

I am writing to inform you about an unfortunate incident that occurred during my recent long-distance bus journey with your company.

Bullet 1

inform the bus company of when and to where you travelled

I travelled from London to Edinburgh on your bus service on the 15th of June. The journey was comfortable and punctual, but upon retrieving my suitcase at the end of the trip, I noticed that it had been significantly damaged.

Bullet 2

describe your suitcase and what happened to it

My suitcase is a medium-sized black hardshell with a distinctive red luggage tag. The front panel was cracked, and the handle was broken, making it difficult to carry. I believe the damage occurred during handling or storage in the bus compartment.

Bullet 3

explain why the company should pay for a new suitcase

I kindly request that the company covers the cost of a new suitcase to replace the damaged one. As a paying customer, I expect my belongings to be handled with care and for the company to take responsibility for any damages incurred while under their supervision. It is only fair that the company compensates me for the loss.

Closing

I trust that you will address this matter promptly and look forward to a resolution from your end. Thank you for your attention to this issue.

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