Whereas choosing to live with another person under ordinary circumstances is a carefully thought out step, the pandemic and lockdown means that couples are thrown together quickly with little opportunity to plan for the future. Living together raises a number of questions that couples need to work through, for example, how outgoings should be divided between them.
Care should be taken when one party to the relationship is the property owner. It is very important to set out in writing how contributions towards living expenses should be treated to prevent the non property-owning party from gaining rights in the property. A co-habitation agreement can be a very useful tool for setting out each party’s rights and obligations with the aim of protecting both parties should the relationship end. If intentions are set down in writing from the beginning this can avoid the need for arguments d and expensive legal bills if things go wrong. Differing recollections, time, conflicting documents and becoming engaged can all become an issue.
It is easy and to enter into a cohabitation agreement at any time during a relationship by unmarried couples to clarify their positions. These agreements can be flexible documents and if they are carefully drafted, are likely to be binding. We can provide practical and constructive advice on the various complex issues which can arise for cohabitees and draft these agreements for you.
For further guidance on Cohabitation Agreements please contact us on 020 7397 2032 or use our online enquiry form.
