Cohabitation agreements in the UK
What is a cohabitation agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a legal contract for unmarried couples who live together. It’s not just about what happens if the relationship ends – it also helps set clear expectations for how you’ll share finances and responsibilities while living together. From dividing rent or mortgage payments to handling bills and day-to-day expenses, a cohabitation agreement provides peace of mind and fairness for both partners. It ensures that you’re on the same page financially, making your life together smoother and more secure.
When entering into a cohabitation agreement, it is important to consider what will happen if you decide to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the future. For example, you can specify whether the terms of the cohabitation remain in place or if they end when you get married and a prenuptial agreement is drawn up in their place.
If you and your partner jointly own a home but one partner has made a larger financial contribution, a cohabitation agreement can specify how the property will be divided if the relationship ends.
While cohabiting couples don’t have the same legal rights as married partners, a cohabitation agreement provides peace of mind, ensuring both partners are treated fairly and equitably. It’s about protecting each other and securing your future together.
The key benefits of having a cohabitation agreement in the UK
- Protection of your assets, property, and personal belongings
- Financial security for your children and your family
- Clarity around child maintenance
- Reduction in future legal disputes
- Inheritance protection
- Clear division of property ownership
Understanding your legal rights as a cohabiting couple
1. Rights to property
2. Rights to child maintenance
3. Rights to inheritance
FAQs
A cohabitation agreement can include:
- How rent, mortgage, and household bills are divided.
- Ownership of property, savings, investments, and personal belongings.
- Financial responsibilities during the relationship and after separation.
- Child arrangements, including maintenance and parental responsibilities.
- What happens to joint debts if the relationship ends?
To ensure your cohabitation agreement is legally binding and fair:
- Contact us today to chat to a solicitor to draft or review the agreement.
- Fully disclose financial details, including assets, debts, and income.
- Ensure both parties enter freely, without pressure or coercion.
- Keep the agreement updated, especially if financial or family circumstances change.