UK Immigration: Major Changes to Indefinite Leave to Remain Under the New Earned Settlement Model
3 November 2026
Protecting your interests
An increasing number of people are choosing to live together without getting married. In fact, there are currently more than six million people cohabiting in England and Wales.
Whilst cohabitants do enjoy legal protection in several areas, they still have significantly fewer rights than married or civil partnered couples.
This can bring its own set of problems, with many cohabiting couples only discovering how few rights they actually have when their relationship breaks down. This is where disputes can arise.
There are things you can do to protect your position before you start to live together. It is therefore prudent to see a solicitor and take some advice at an early stage. Professional advice can help you avoid the stress and financial loss if the relationship subsequently breaks down.
What is a cohabitation agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a formal agreement for individuals who live together, outlining how finances, property and other assets are to be shared during cohabitation or divided if it doesn’t work out.
Although they are most commonly used for unmarried couples, they can be used between friends, roommates, siblings or other relatives who buy or rent together and want to protect their rights.
A clear agreement protects all individuals involved and prevents misunderstandings later.
What does a cohabitation agreement cover?
A cohabitation agreement can cover various financial and practical matters, such as:
- How property is owned and managed
- Contributions to rent, mortgage or household expenses
- Handling of jointly owned assets
- Responsibility for debts
- Financial arrangements for any children
- Responsibilities, both financial and otherwise, for pets
If you are unsure what to include in a cohabitation agreement, please get in touch and we can advise you based on your individual circumstances.
How we draft a cohabitation agreement that protects you both
We make the process as stress-free as possible, focusing on clarity and fairness.
We’ll start with an initial conversation to understand your plans, contributions and what matters most to you.
Once we know this, we can identify any potential risks or gaps early on, before drafting an agreement tailored to your finances, property and living situation.
As the agreement will need to be signed by all parties, we offer each person the opportunity to seek independent legal advice before finalising it to minimise future disputes and ensure its legally binding.
Step 02
Call
Our Solicitors will explain the pertinent points of law with you, what your obligations are, whether a cohabitation agreement is right for you, and costs and timelines.
Step 03
Sign
The engagement letter and we'll get to work on your cohabitation agreement.
Do you need a declaration of trust as well?
A declaration of trust is a legal document that clearly sets out each person’s share in a property. It is often used when one partner contributes a larger deposit or investment than the other.
This document works alongside a cohabitation agreement to provide full protection and clarity, rather than replacing it.
Mortgage brokers and conveyancers frequently recommend having both to avoid disputes later.
Hear from our clients:
They’re good people to deal with. Despite the size of firm, I have been pleased that there is still a personal approach to what they do. Obviously it’s important for a solicitor to be professional and flexible and I’ve found that they are, but I’ve always thought that it’s very important that they’re friendly and easy to deal with as well.
Robert Tizzard – Manual Investing Ltd
Extremely professional, knowledgeable and honest advice. Relaxed and approachable service throughout in assisting Us to create our Will. We would highly recommend this Firm.
Hinna Masud
Cohabitation FAQs
Do we really need a cohabitation agreement if we trust each other?
Even if you trust each other completely, a cohabitation agreement can still be valuable in case circumstances change. It provides clarity, reduces uncertainty, and ensures both partners’ interests are protected during the relationship and in the event of separation.
Will asking for an agreement make things feel awkward?
Most couples see it as part of planning sensibly for their future, especially when deposits or contributions are unequal.
Is a cohabitation agreement legally binding?
A cohabitation agreement can be legally binding in the UK if it is properly drafted, signed as a deed and both partners have received independent legal advice. Full financial disclosure by each party is required to ensure the agreement is fair and entered into freely without pressure or manipulation.
Can we draft a cohabitation agreement if we already live together?
Yes. Agreements can be created or updated at any time so they continue reflect your circumstances.
Seek independent legal advice on cohabitation
Your solicitor’s job is to look after your best interests, providing realistic, professional advice that is right for you and your circumstances, using their knowledge of the law and their professional experience.
Get in touch with us to find out how a cohabitation agreement could protect your interests.
