IELTS General Writing Task 1 – Electricity Bill Overcharge
Model Answer (Band 8–8.5)
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing regarding my most recent electricity bill, which appears to be considerably higher than it should be. The amount charged is £186, whereas my usual monthly bills are approximately £85–£95.
I have checked the meter reading shown on the bill against the current reading on my electricity meter, and there seems to be a significant discrepancy. The bill states a reading of 14,860 units, while my meter currently shows only 14,312. As my household routine and electricity usage have not changed recently, I believe the charge may have been calculated incorrectly.
Could you please review my account and confirm how the amount was calculated? I would also appreciate it if you could check whether an estimated reading or another billing error has been used. If an error is confirmed, please issue a corrected bill and adjust my account accordingly.
I have attached a photograph of the current meter reading for reference. I would be grateful if this matter could be resolved before the payment deadline.
Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your response.
Yours faithfully,
Edward Collins
Analytical Review – Strengths, Weaknesses & Improvements
- Consistently formal and professional tone suitable for addressing an electricity provider.
- The problem is introduced immediately and supported with specific figures.
- The writer provides clear evidence by comparing the billed meter reading with the actual reading.
- Strong formal collocations such as “significant discrepancy,” “calculated incorrectly,” “issue a corrected bill,” and “adjust my account accordingly.”
- The requested action is precise: investigate the bill, explain the calculation, and correct any error.
- The letter assumes that the meter-reading discrepancy is responsible for the overcharge, although another billing factor could theoretically be involved.
- Too many additional technical details would make the letter unnecessarily complicated, so the explanation must remain focused.
- Include specific figures whenever possible because they make a complaint more convincing and precise.
- Provide supporting evidence, such as a photograph of the meter reading, rather than merely claiming that the bill is incorrect.
- Request both clarification and a specific remedy instead of making a general complaint.
- difference → significant discrepancy
- check my bill → review my account
- wrong calculation → billing error
- fix the bill → issue a corrected bill
- change the balance → adjust the account accordingly
- proof → supporting evidence
- Support the complaint with precise numerical information rather than vague statements.
- Use polite indirect requests such as “Could you please…” and “I would be grateful if…”.
- Use conditional structures naturally, for example: “If an error is confirmed, please issue a corrected bill.”
- Maintain a clear progression: identify the problem → provide evidence → request clarification → request correction.
- Avoid emotional or aggressive language; a formal complaint should remain factual, controlled, and solution-focused.