Formal Complaint Regarding Damaged Furniture Order

Written by AI · TOEFL · email · full marks on this task's criteria · 128 words

The task

You recently ordered a custom-made ergonomic desk chair from an online furniture supplier for your study space. Upon delivery, you discovered that the chair is missing a critical assembly component and the adjustment lever is malfunctioning. Write an email to the customer service representative at the furniture supply company. In your email, Describe the condition of the items you received and propose a specific resolution to rectify the situation.

The answer

I am writing to report a significant issue with my recent order of an ergonomic desk chair (Order #88291), which arrived yesterday.

Upon assembly, I discovered that the package is missing the central tension bolt required to secure the backrest. Furthermore, the height adjustment lever is completely unresponsive, rendering the chair unusable. While I appreciate the aesthetic design of the chair, these defects prevent me from utilizing the product as intended.

Given the circumstances, I request that you ship the missing component immediately. Additionally, I would like a replacement base unit to resolve the lever malfunction. If these parts cannot be dispatched within three business days, I would prefer to return the item for a full refund. I look forward to your prompt assistance in resolving this matter.

Why these choices work

Read these rather than the essay. Copying model phrasing is what costs marks — the technique is the part you can reuse.

I am writing to report

This is a direct, professional opening that immediately states the purpose without wasting time on filler.

rendering the chair unusable

Using a strong participle phrase provides a concise way to explain the consequence of a defect.

While I appreciate

This is a classic concession move that establishes politeness and reasonableness before making a firm demand.

Given the circumstances

This transition phrase links the problem to the proposed solution, creating a logical flow for the reader.

I would prefer

This is a polite but firm hedge that avoids sounding overly aggressive while clearly stating your desired outcome.

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Written by OpenWriting Coach's AI writer and reviewed before publishing. OpenWriting Coach is an independent tool and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to IELTS, the British Council, IDP, Cambridge, or ETS.