The COVID-19 restrictions on mingling with anyone outside of one’s own household has resulted in many couples making the decision to move-in together so that they are able to physically spend time together.
It may be that some of those couples decide that they will continue to live together after the lockdown restrictions are eased or removed.
It’s an exciting point in a relationship to move in together. However, it is important that cohabitees think about the practicalities of living together, and their rights and obligations in relation to the other, both whilst the cohabitation is continuing and what may happen in the event of separation.
This usually does not seem very romantic to some and it is common for people to feel anxious about broaching these points with the other at what should be a happy occasion. However, in our experience we find that tensions and difficulties arise when parties are uncertain about the future and how they might be vulnerable.
It is sensible for cohabitees to enter into a cohabitation agreement. A cohabitation agreement can cover most things that any couple would want it to but commonly include, for example:
- Ownership of the property. This is particularly important where one party is moving into a property that is owned by the other. A cohabitation agreement can be used to confirm that the non-owner shall not have a legal interest in the property, irrespective of any financial contribution they may make or as a result of any works or improvements they carry out. Alternatively, if the other person is to have a financial interest in the property, that should be documented.
- How household outgoings will be shared during cohabitation.
- Use of and retention of vehicles.
- What should happen to any household contents in the event of separation.
- Contributions to a joint bank account, and how any balance (positive or negative) will be divided upon separation.
- Payment of any joint debts during and after the relationship.
- What should happen to any pets upon separation.
- Nominations for pension death benefits.
- Provision or life insurance and distribution of payment on death.
For more information on cohabitation agreements and how we can help you, please contact our Family Team on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our Team will be in touch.