Letter to complain about misdescribed goods bought from a private seller by Citizens Advice
This template is a formal complaint letter designed for a buyer to send to a seller when goods purchased do not match their description. It allows the buyer to detail the discrepancy and request compensation, citing the Sale of Goods Act 1979. The template provides sections for outlining the specific goods, the original description, the actual condition, and the desired compensation amount.
Sam Hoolin 8 Park Avenue
Arlton
AL1 4CA
01632 960001
Mo Smith 24 Station Road
Giltham
GT16 3LP
12 September 2025
Dear Mo Smith,
Complaint about misdescribed goods
I bought the following goods from you on 14 January 2022: Thread+Go sewing machine model 5400
I paid £300. I now find the goods were misdescribed. You described the item as:
The light works but new bulb is needed.
But in fact:
The light doesn't work even though I've replaced the bulb with a new one.
Under the Sale of Goods Act 1979 goods you supply must match their description. As the goods don't match how you described them, I am asking you to compensate me for the difference in value between what I paid and what the goods were worth. I am requesting £50
In support of my claim, I have enclosed: My receipt for payment for the machine
Please respond within 14 days of receiving this letter.
Yours sincerely,
Sam Hoolin
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England & Wales note
This version is drafted for England & Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland differ on some points — for example notice periods and tribunal procedure. Tell GitLaw where you hire and it adjusts the draft.
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