Attic Rain Specialists Ltd v No Payne Roofing Inc
Attic Rain Specialists Ltd.
Law Firm / Organization
Not Specified
Lawyer(s)

C. Newcombe

No Payne Roofing Inc.
Law Firm / Organization
Self Represented
  • The case involves allegations of passing off, where Attic Rain Specialists Ltd claims No Payne Roofing Inc is using its trade name and trademark.

Applicant's Claims

  • Seeks a permanent injunction to stop the Respondent from using "Attic Rain Specialists" or any similar variations.
  • Demands the Respondent hand over any promotional materials using the disputed name.

Evidence Presented

  • Applicant’s Affidavit: Claims of business operation since March 2021, incorporation in March 2022, reputation, and a pending trademark application.
  • Key Assertions:
    • Direct competition between the two companies.
    • Goodwill and brand recognition established in Calgary.
    • Evidence of the Respondent's use of the name causing confusion, including Google AdWords campaigns.
  • Gaps in Evidence:
    • Lack of specific data on market recognition, sales volume, and advertising impact.
    • Missing comprehensive internet search results and promotional materials from the Respondent.

Respondent's Position

  • Did not file evidence or cross-examine.
  • Self-represented, claims to be a legitimate attic rain specialist.

Legal Analysis

  • Passing Off Elements: Goodwill, public deception due to misrepresentation, and actual or potential damage.
  • Goodwill Proof: The Applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence of market recognition or distinctiveness.
  • Descriptive Nature of Name: "Attic Rain Specialists" seen as potentially generic, lacking secondary meaning exclusive to the Applicant.

Decision

  • Insufficient Evidence: The Applicant did not meet the burden of proving goodwill or distinctiveness on a balance of probabilities.
  • Permanent Injunction: Denied due to weak evidence. The court emphasized the necessity of concrete proof in such cases.

Conclusion

  • Application Dismissed: The request for a permanent injunction is denied.
  • The court did not make a final order regarding costs.
Court of King's Bench of Alberta
2401 02645
Intellectual property
Respondent