FirstOntario Credit Union Limited v. Nagra et al.
FirstOntario Credit Union Limited
Law Firm / Organization
Not Specified
Lawyer(s)

H. Reininger

Kanwaljot Nagra
Law Firm / Organization
Kestenberg Litigation LLP
Nelson Campos
Law Firm / Organization
Kestenberg Litigation LLP
Jeffrey W. Lem, Director of Titles and Deputy Director of Land Registration
Law Firm / Organization
Not Specified
Lawyer(s)

J. Sydnor

Background:

  • The case involves an appeal against the Director of Titles' decision on May 3, 2023, which deleted FirstOntario's (FO) charge from the title of 200 Stinson Street, Hamilton, Ontario.
  • FO Charge, registered on November 29, 2016, was mistakenly deleted on December 7, 2016.
  • Carmichael sold the property to Nagra in April 2020, who secured a mortgage from Campos. The mistake was discovered in May 2022, and the charge was reinstated.

Key Events:

  • August 12, 2020: Carmichael transferred the title to Nagra, and Campos registered his charge.
  • The reinstatement of the FO Charge was contested, leading to the Director's decision to delete it.

Legal Arguments:

  • Applicant: Sought rectification to reinstate the FO Charge, arguing Respondents had constructive notice due to title search red flags.
  • Respondents: Argued for the doctrine of indefeasibility of title, protecting bona fide purchasers and mortgagees without actual notice.

Court's Analysis:

  • The court emphasized the reliability of land registration, confirming Nagra and Campos as bona fide purchasers and mortgagees without actual notice.
  • Constructive knowledge was deemed insufficient to affect their rights.
  • The court ruled against creating exceptions for Land Registry errors beyond current legal principles.

Conclusion:

  • The appeal was dismissed, upholding the deletion of the FO Charge.
  • The Applicant may seek compensation from the Land Titles Assurance Fund if unable to recover losses otherwise.

Costs:

  • Parties were encouraged to agree on costs or submit filings within specified timelines.
Superior Court of Justice - Ontario
CV-23-81784
Real estate
Respondent