Relationship breakdown

If you live with your partner and have decided you no longer wish to remain in a relationship, you should think carefully about your housing options. If it is safe to do so, you should remain living in your current home until you have found another place to live.

If you are at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse, contact us immediately on 0161 912 2230.

If you own the property

If you and your partner own the property and you have no dependent children, you should stay in the property until you have made a legal agreement regarding the ownership of the property. You should also make sure you have suitable alternative accommodation before you leave the property.

You should seek legal advice if you are considering selling the property and should only complete a sale if you have found somewhere else to live.

If you live in a rented property

If you and your partner live in a rented property with a joint tenancy and you have no dependent children you should make sure that the rent payments are up to date, the joint tenancy is replaced with a sole tenancy (in the name of whoever is remaining), and the landlord is told of the day that you leave the property. 

You must ensure you have suitable alternative accommodation to go to before leaving the property.

You can find more information on your options as a joint tenant if your relationship breaks down by visiting Shelter’s website.

If you have dependent children

If you and your partner have dependent children, it is usually in the interest of the children that they stay in the family home with the person responsible for their primary care. You should seek legal advice if you are the primary carer, but the property is owned or rented in your partner’s sole name.

For help and support, call our team on 0161 912 2230 or seek independent advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau or Shelter.