TruGrp Inc. v. Karmina Holdings Inc.
TRUGRP INC.
Law Firm / Organization
Camelino Galessiere LLP
KARMINA HOLDINGS INC.
Law Firm / Organization
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
DR. H.A. DEMIAN MEDICINE PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
Law Firm / Organization
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
DOMPOL ENTERPRISES INC.
Law Firm / Organization
Not Specified

Summary: This case revolves around TruGrp Inc.'s challenge to a letter of credit issued by Bank of Montreal (BMO) as security under a construction lien against Karmina Holdings Inc. TruGrp contested the adequacy of the letter of credit, particularly its automatic renewal terms, which they argued could leave them unprotected if not renewed.

Key Points:

  • Issue with Letter of Credit: The key dispute was whether the letter of credit’s terms, allowing non-renewal with 30 days’ notice prior to expiry, complied with the requirements of the Construction Act.
  • Court’s Analysis: The court highlighted the necessity to determine the compliance of the common form of letter of credit with the Construction Act. This was triggered by concerns from the Accountant of the Superior Court of Justice about the procedures required to replace the letter of credit with a more secure form of guarantee.
  • Procedural Considerations: Despite Karmina’s procedural challenges, the court prioritized resolving the substantive security issue, emphasizing the importance of ensuring effective lien security.

Outcome: The motion to set aside the order vacating TruGrp’s lien claims was adjourned sine die, awaiting further submissions from BMO and the Court's Accountant. This decision underscores the need for clarity on the statutory adherence of security instruments used in construction liens to safeguard the interests of lien claimants. No amount for costs/award specified.

Superior Court of Justice - Ontario
CV-23-81869 (Hamilton)
Banking/Finance
Plaintiff