What to Do When Someone Does You Wrong

What to Do When Someone Does You Wrong

So… you got a note.

“So sorry!”
“Didn’t mean to.”
“Hope this doesn’t mess up your day.”


Maybe it was taped to your door. Maybe it was tucked under a wiper.
Maybe it followed an accident, a flooded room, a lost pet, a ruined moment.

The note feels human.
But now you're stuck — with damage, disruption, or a loss that isn’t really yours to carry.

Whether it’s a neighbor’s tree, a roommate’s mess, or a well-meaning mistake that cost you dearly, here’s how to handle it when someone says sorry… but doesn’t make it right.

1. Take a breath — and take notes

Before firing off texts or venting in the group chat, write down everything that happened. Include times, dates, what you saw or experienced, and any communication you’ve had. Notes age better than memory.

2. Keep the evidence

Photos, screenshots, bills, even the note itself — save it all.
You may never need it… but if you do, you’ll thank yourself later.

3. Start with a calm, clear message

Assume good intent, but ask for accountability.
Example:

“Thanks for your note. The [situation] has left me with [describe the impact], and I’d like to figure out how we can resolve this fairly.”
Tone matters. So does clarity.

4. Know your rights

In Québec, even informal situations — between neighbors, friends, roommates — can trigger legal obligations.
If someone’s actions (or neglect) caused you a loss, you may be entitled to compensation under basic civil liability rules.

5. If things stall, don’t stew — get guidance

Sometimes people ghost you. Or offer less than what’s fair. Or make things awkward.
That’s when a quick chat with a lawyer can help you understand your real options — including how to draft a formal letter, or whether small claims court makes sense.

A heartfelt note is a nice start.
It’s not a finish line.

When things go sideways, you’re allowed to be kind and stand your ground.

Heard of Leya? We make it easy to chat with a real lawyer — like, calendar-in-your-hand easy. No phone tag. No weird surprises. Just straight answers from a human. When you're ready, we’re here.

So… you got a note.

“So sorry!”
“Didn’t mean to.”
“Hope this doesn’t mess up your day.”


Maybe it was taped to your door. Maybe it was tucked under a wiper.
Maybe it followed an accident, a flooded room, a lost pet, a ruined moment.

The note feels human.
But now you're stuck — with damage, disruption, or a loss that isn’t really yours to carry.

Whether it’s a neighbor’s tree, a roommate’s mess, or a well-meaning mistake that cost you dearly, here’s how to handle it when someone says sorry… but doesn’t make it right.

1. Take a breath — and take notes

Before firing off texts or venting in the group chat, write down everything that happened. Include times, dates, what you saw or experienced, and any communication you’ve had. Notes age better than memory.

2. Keep the evidence

Photos, screenshots, bills, even the note itself — save it all.
You may never need it… but if you do, you’ll thank yourself later.

3. Start with a calm, clear message

Assume good intent, but ask for accountability.
Example:

“Thanks for your note. The [situation] has left me with [describe the impact], and I’d like to figure out how we can resolve this fairly.”
Tone matters. So does clarity.

4. Know your rights

In Québec, even informal situations — between neighbors, friends, roommates — can trigger legal obligations.
If someone’s actions (or neglect) caused you a loss, you may be entitled to compensation under basic civil liability rules.

5. If things stall, don’t stew — get guidance

Sometimes people ghost you. Or offer less than what’s fair. Or make things awkward.
That’s when a quick chat with a lawyer can help you understand your real options — including how to draft a formal letter, or whether small claims court makes sense.

A heartfelt note is a nice start.
It’s not a finish line.

When things go sideways, you’re allowed to be kind and stand your ground.

Heard of Leya? We make it easy to chat with a real lawyer — like, calendar-in-your-hand easy. No phone tag. No weird surprises. Just straight answers from a human. When you're ready, we’re here.