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5 Great Complaint Email Templates To Copy & Paste

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Let's talk about complaint emails. Getting them right means finding that sweet spot between being direct and being courteous, which isn't always easy.

Using a template helps you strike that balance. It provides a clear structure to build on, ensuring your message is effective and gets the attention it deserves.

Tips for Writing Complaint Emails

  • Use a clear subject line. It’s the first thing they see, so make it count. Include key details like your order number or the specific issue right away.
  • Provide proof. Don't just say something is wrong—show it. Attach photos, screenshots, or any documents that back up your claim. This cuts through the back-and-forth.
  • State your desired outcome. Be clear about what you want. Do you need a refund, a replacement, or something else? Spelling it out makes it easier for them to help you.
  • Keep your cool. It's tempting to let frustration take over, but a polite and direct tone gets you further. Stick to the facts and avoid emotional language.

Types of Complaint Email Templates We Will Cover

  1. Product Defect Email Template
  2. Late Delivery Email Template
  3. Poor Service Email Template
  4. Billing Error Email Template
  5. Warranty Claim Email Template

5 Complaint Email Templates

1) Product Defect Email Template

<template>

Subject: Issue with Order #[Order Number] - Defective Product

Dear [Customer Support Team/Contact Person],

I am writing to report a defect with a product I recently purchased. On [Date of Purchase], I ordered a [Product Name], order number [Order Number], and it was delivered on [Date of Delivery].

Unfortunately, the item I received is defective. Specifically, [describe the defect in detail, e.g., the power button is not working, there is a crack in the casing, a key component is missing]. I have attached [photos/a video] to this email to show you the issue clearly.

To resolve this, I would like a [replacement/full refund]. Please let me know the next steps for returning the defective item and how we can proceed.

Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]

</template>

2) Late Delivery Email Template

<template>

Subject: Inquiry Regarding Late Delivery of Order #[Order Number]

Dear [Customer Support Team/Contact Person],

I am writing to follow up on my order, #[Order Number], which I placed on [Date of Purchase]. The original estimated delivery date was [Original Delivery Date], but it has not yet arrived.

I have checked the tracking information, but the status has not been updated since [Date of Last Tracking Update]. Could you please look into this and provide an update on my shipment’s whereabouts?

Please let me know when I can expect to receive my order. If the package cannot be located, I would like to request a [replacement/full refund].

Thank you for your assistance.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]

</template>

3) Poor Service Email Template

<template>

Subject: Feedback on Service Experience on [Date of Interaction]

Dear [Manager/Customer Support Team],

I am writing to provide feedback on a recent service experience I had with your company on [Date] at [Location, if applicable].

During my interaction with [Employee Name or description], I was disappointed by [describe the specific issue, e.g., the unhelpful attitude, the incorrect information provided, the long wait time without communication]. The level of service did not meet the expectations I have for your brand.

I believe it's important to bring this to your attention so it can be addressed. I hope this feedback can be used to improve future customer experiences. To resolve this, I would appreciate [state your desired outcome, e.g., an apology, a partial refund, assurance of staff retraining].

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]

</template>

4) Billing Error Email Template

<template>

Subject: Billing Error on Invoice #[Invoice Number]

Dear [Billing Department/Contact Person],

I am writing to address a billing error on invoice #[Invoice Number], dated [Date of Invoice]. I was charged [Incorrect Amount], but the correct total should be [Correct Amount].

The discrepancy appears to be [explain the error, e.g., a duplicate charge, a discount that was not applied, an incorrect rate]. I have attached a copy of the invoice for your reference.

Please issue a corrected invoice and refund the difference of [Difference Amount] to my account. Let me know if you need any further information to resolve this.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]

</template>

5) Warranty Claim Email Template

<template>

Subject: Warranty Claim for [Product Name] - Order #[Order Number]

Dear [Customer Support Team/Contact Person],

I am writing to file a warranty claim for a [Product Name], which I purchased on [Date of Purchase]. The product’s serial number is [Serial Number], and the original order number is [Order Number].

The item has developed a fault: [describe the issue in detail, e.g., it no longer powers on, a specific feature has stopped working]. This issue is covered under the terms of your warranty. I have attached a copy of my proof of purchase and [photos/a video] demonstrating the problem.

As per the warranty agreement, I would like to request a [repair/replacement]. Please advise on the next steps for processing this claim, including any return instructions.

Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]

</template>

What About Using Flodesk?

Flodesk

While these templates help you navigate tricky customer conversations, your overall email strategy should feel just as straightforward. Flodesk provides the tools for small businesses to grow and monetize their email lists without the friction. You can design, send, and automate your campaigns to connect with your audience and drive revenue—no coding or design background required.

Our platform is trusted by thousands of businesses because we make sending effective emails simple. With an intuitive email builder, powerful automations, and clean forms, Flodesk gives you all the essentials for your email marketing. We handle the complexity so you can focus on creating communications that look great and get results.

Wrapping Up

Getting your communication right, from handling complaints to sending campaigns, is key to building a strong brand. Flodesk gives you the tools to design and automate emails that connect with your audience.

See how simple email marketing can be. Sign up for Flodesk to get started.

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Flodesk Team
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Flodesk Team

Flodesk Team is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and businesses to create stunning, effective emails. With expertise in email marketing, automation, and design, we’re here to share insights, tips, and strategies to help you grow your brand.

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