The parties were married under the separation of property regime.
The appellant wife owned the family residence, which was financed by a loan from her father.
The respondent husband repaid the loan and paid for taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
Upon divorce, the respondent claimed a $40,000 compensatory allowance for his contributions to the property.
The trial judge dismissed the claim, finding the contributions equivalent to rent and a choice of lifestyle.
The Court of Appeal reversed this decision and awarded the allowance.
The Supreme Court of Canada allowed the appeal, restoring the trial judge's decision.
The Court held that the trial judge reasonably exercised his discretion under art. 559 of the Civil Code of Quebec by considering the overall matrimonial situation, including the wife's withdrawal from the labour market and the father's favourable loan terms, which justified the enrichment.
