Ultimate UK Expert Guide to Complaining: 6 Tips to Get Compensation Without Being a Difficult Guest

▲Etiquette experts teach you how to make a complaint (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

By Rita

Issues with accommodation during a trip are bound to happen—some choose to silently endure the inconvenience, while others overreact and become what staff call “difficult guests.”The UK’s Daily Mail websitespoke with etiquette expert William Hanson on how to effectively “complain” to hotels and get the compensation you deserve. Here are some tips:

1. Handle It in Person
Guests should approach hotel staff or a manager in person—it’s better than having someone else report your issue. Whether it’s an unsatisfactory bed or a broken TV, ask hotel personnel to see the problem firsthand.

2. Be Specific About the Issue
Start by jotting down the time and location of the incident. When hotel staff arrive, explain the issue clearly again. Photos are also strong evidence—for example, if something was stained, damaged, or malfunctioning. The more information you give the employee or manager, the more likely they are to assist. Finally, don’t forget to note the name of the staff member who handled your complaint.

3. Don’t Be Unreasonable
No matter how bad the situation is, stay calm—but don’t be overly friendly or polite either.

4. Clearly State What You Want
Staff might ask how they can compensate you. Even if you’re upset, besides expressing your feelings, you need to tell them what will resolve the issue and make you satisfied. But don’t start off demanding freebies or making unreasonable requests.

5. Don’t Be Rude
Hospitality is arguably one of the toughest industries out there. Remember, if you don’t treat them with respect or treat them like servants, it won’t help solve the problem at all.

6. Go Straight to the Manager
Typically, the first point of contact for complaints is the front desk, but it’s often better to speak directly with a manager.

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