If Your Relationship Has Ended and You Need Housing Help

Breaking up with a partner can be hard, especially when it comes to housing.
Here’s some basic advice — but it’s best to speak to a solicitor, Citizens Advice, or Shelter for more help.

Your Housing Rights Depend On:

• Whether you own or rent the home
• Whether you are married, in a civil partnership, or just living together
• Whether you are at risk of violence

Joint Owners or Tenants

• If you own or rent the home together, you both have the right to live there.
• You both must help pay the rent or mortgage.
• If you leave, you may still have a legal interest in the home.
• You can ask a court to transfer the home to you — speak to a solicitor.

⚠️ One person can end the tenancy without the other’s agreement, which could lead to homelessness.

Married Couples or Civil Partners

• You have the right to live in the home, even if your partner owns or rents it.
• You don’t have to leave unless a court says so.
• You can ask a court to transfer the home to you.
• You can pay the rent or mortgage if your partner leaves.
• You may be able to get housing benefit if you’re on a low income.

Unmarried Couples (Cohabiting)

• If you jointly own or rent, you both have the right to stay.
• If your partner is the only owner or tenant, you may not have the right to stay.
• If you have a child, you can ask a court to transfer the home to you for the child’s benefit.

If You’re at Risk of Violence

If you are in danger, the council may treat you as homeless and help you find a safe place to live.

📋 Visit our Homelessness Advice and Support page to learn more or fill in a self-referral form.

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Useful Links

Citizens Advice

Shelter England