Posted on: 17/03/2026

Category: FAQs

A cohabitation agreement is a written, signed document, often signed as a deed in front of witnesses. It will generally deal with three principal areas:

  • who owns (and owes) what at the time of the agreement, and in what proportions
  • what financial arrangements you have decided to make while you are living together
  • how property, assets and income should be divided if you should split up

Where the agreement is properly drawn up, the terms are reasonable, and each of you has had separate, independent legal advice on its effect, a court is more likely to uphold the agreement in the event of a dispute. It can also be prudent to include provisions that address potential future events, eg the needs of any future children.

Justine Lowe

If you have any questions or queries, please contact Justine Lowe on +44 1905 723561 or by email at justine.lowe@smesolicitors.co.uk.