Complaining to a company should be straightforward, but research by the National Consumer Council indicates that one in two of us considers it too much hassle. Here is Times Money’s quick guide.

It is important that you remain – or appear – calm throughout the process and keep a record of all communications. For tailored advice, call Consumer Direct on 0845 4040506.

Know your rights

Complaints are best made with confidence: “I am entitled to…”, not “I think I am entitled to…”.

How to switch energy supplier

Background

• How to complain

• How to protect your PC

• How to start a business

• How to shop around

• Your redundancy rights

Therefore it is critical that you understand your statutory rights. These are contained in the Sale of Goods Act 1979 and the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 (among other legislation) and state that goods should be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described, while work carried out by a tradesman or service provider should be done with reasonable care, in a reasonable time and at a reasonable charge.

If these conditions are not met, you are entitled to a refund – from the retailer, rather than manufacturer in the case of goods – within a reasonable time, then to reduced compensation for six years from purchase. What is reasonable varies, but it can be as little as a few days.

Act fast

It is best to report any problem as soon as possible. In the first instance, this means a relatively casual approach, such as a phone call, e-mail to customer services or a face-to-face chat with a tradesman or shop manager. Explain the situation and ask for a refund or, if you prefer, replacement or repair.

Put it in writing

If you do not obtain an immediate result, write a letter. This should be addressed to a name – typically the customer services manager – rather than sir or "Sir/Madam". It should explain the problem and include specifics, such as details of the product or service, the date of purchase and names of staff. State what evidence you have – a receipt or photos of a botched job, perhaps – but do not send originals. Then state that you are entitled to a refund under consumer law, that you would like a refund and that you expect to hear back within a set time; 14 days is good. Your letter should be typed, where possible, and sent by recorded delivery.

Escalate

Still no luck? Contact the relevant trade association or regulatory body. These are listed, with other useful information, at howtocomplain.com. Staff may take up the matter or direct you to a dispute resolution service. In some cases, the complaint may be referred to an ombudsman.

Seek help

Next contact your local Trading Standards Office or Citizens’ Advice for free help and advice.

Take action

If all else fails, threaten then initiate legal action. Community Legal Advice and Citizens Advice can provide free help.

Five news stories

Consumer groups blast hard sell by Barclays

A great pre-boarding swindle

Bank charge victims face payment threat

BT charges me for not having a direct debit

Lies, scams and threat - banks are condemned

Five features

Turn your problem into theirs

Keep your calls on the record

Does it warrant extra cover?

eBay: law is, mostly, on your side

Airlines: why have we stopped complaining?

Five websites

How to Complain

Consumer direct

The Office of Fair Trading

Community legal advice

The Courts