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.

Domestic Abuse

If you are experiencing domestic abuse please visit our Domestic Abuse - Get help and stay safe page for advice and support.

Useful Links

Citizens Advice

Shelter England