The contra proferentem rule is a principle of last resort that applies only where ambiguity remains after all other aids to construction have been exhausted; strained or artificial constructions do not give rise to the ambiguity necessary to engage the rule. Where a contractual document contains internal inconsistencies (such as errors in a plan), the court will construe the document as a whole to ascertain its substantial effect, discarding inessential details that are inconsistent with the document's main objective. Under s 88K of the Conveyancing Act 1919, no compensation is payable for an easement where the need for the easement arose solely from the conduct of the party whose land is to be burdened.
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