In our January 24 post, we discussed how the BBB can resolve most disputes between individuals and businesses, and some resources to help when businesses choose not to work with the BBB. There are times when you must also consider taking your problems to your city, county or state police. Some Tri-state police departments have web sites where you can learn more about your rights. Below are ten we found in the 18 Tri-state counties we serve:
Vanderburgh County Indiana Sheriff
Warrick County Indiana Sheriff
The following suggestions will help you to achieve the most effective results:
First contact the business. Take your problem to the salesperson, manager or the company’s customer service representative. Most problems are resolved at this level. If you are still not satisfied, contact the owner or the company’s headquarters. If the business will not resolve a problem directly, consumers can file a complaint with your State Attorney General or the Better Business Bureau.
The complaint should include documentation, and explain what the problem is, who it is with, what you have done and what you want. In particular it should:
- Identify the Business. Include the name and current address of the business. An agency will not be able to help very much without the firm’s current address.
- Describe as completely as you can the problem with the product or service you have purchased. Were you told something that was untrue? Describe what you were told and how it was untrue. Is it defective? Explain what is wrong. Did the business refuse to honor a warranty? Explain what needs repair and include a photocopy of the warranty.
- Explain what you want the business to do: how much money should be refunded or exactly how you want a product fixed or a service performed. Always include photocopies of documents relevant to your complaint receipts, warranties, both sides of cancelled checks or contracts. Do not send originals. Only send copies, except when requested by the agency taking your complaint.
Should you Arbitrate or mediate? In arbitration, a neutral party hears both sides of a complaint and makes a decision that will be binding on the parties, depending on the terms of the arbitration agreement., To proceed with arbitration, both sides formally agree to submit the dispute to an arbitrator. In mediation, a neutral party tries to get both sides to agree on a resolution of the complaint. Mediation can begin without any formal agreement between the parties. The Better Business Bureau, and some attorneys’ general, offer mediation services. In some cases, the BBB provides arbitration services.
Related Post:
Resolving Problems with Businesses
