Covey v Dueck
Connie Covey
Law Firm / Organization
Goodfellow & Schuett Law
Lawyer(s)

Stephen Panunto

Adriane Dueck
Law Firm / Organization
Stonetree Law
Lawyer(s)

Natalie Reeder

Adam Kemble
Law Firm / Organization
Stonetree Law
Lawyer(s)

Natalie Reeder

Kevin Beutler
Law Firm / Organization
J M Doyle Professional Corporation
Lawyer(s)

James M Doyle

2 Percent Realty Inc
Law Firm / Organization
J M Doyle Professional Corporation
Lawyer(s)

James M Doyle

Key Issues:

  • Covey appealed a summary judgment ruling that found her in breach of a November 19, 2022, residential purchase contract requiring vacant possession by February 24, 2023.
  • The property had a tenant with a fixed-term lease expiring May 31, 2023, leading to disputes over whether Covey could comply.
  • The case involved contract interpretation, mistake, and summary judgment suitability.

Court’s Decision:

  • Appeal dismissed. The contract clearly required vacant possession, and Covey breached it.
  • Mistake & rectification claims were rejected due to insufficient evidence.
  • Summary judgment was appropriate for Dueck’s claim but not Covey’s third-party claims against the realtors, which proceed to trial.

Key Legal Findings:

  1. Vacant Possession: The contract was unambiguous; Covey was responsible for ensuring the property was empty.
  2. Mistake & Rectification: No proof of a prior oral agreement contradicting the contract’s terms.
  3. Summary Judgment: The breach was clear, requiring no trial.
  4. Third-Party Liability: Realtors’ liability must be determined at trial.

Conclusion:

  • Covey remains liable; damages and third-party claims will be assessed at trial.
  • The court encouraged settlement discussions.
  • No monetary award specified in this decision.
Court of King's Bench of Alberta
2401-10486
Real estate
Respondent