What does “fair” actually look like when you move in together?

When couples decide to live together, the focus is usually on the exciting parts — finding a place, merging lives, and building something shared.

Whether you're in a long-term relationship, a civil partnership, or choosing not to marry at all, one thing is often left unspoken:
What happens financially if things don’t go to plan?

From my experience as a family lawyer, this isn’t about pessimism — it’s about clarity.

That’s where a cohabitation agreement comes in. It’s a practical way of putting your intentions into writing, so you both know where you stand — now and in the future.

A cohabitation agreement can cover things like:

• Who owns the home (and in what shares)

• How bills and day-to-day expenses are split

• What happens to savings, belongings, or joint purchases

• What happens if you separate

For many couples — especially those not married or in a civil partnership — this clarity can be crucial, as the law does not automatically provide the same protections.

It’s particularly worth considering if:

• You’re buying a property together

• One of you is contributing more financially

• Family members are helping with a deposit

• You’re blending finances in any meaningful way

At its core, it’s not about expecting a relationship to fail.
It’s about making sure that if life changes, you’ve already agreed what “fair” looks like — together.

A cohabitation agreement helps couples define financial fairness from the outset, reducing uncertainty and protecting both parties if circumstances change.

Are you thinking about putting clear financial foundations in place from the start?
Elizabeth Stocker, a consultant solicitor specialising in family law and cohabitation agreements, can help you put the right framework in place.