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Original poster

Partner wants to move into my house - How do I protect myself?

129 replies

newbeginnings91 · 26/05/2025 12:55

I have been in a relationship with my partner for almost three years. I bought my house in 2019. He had previously owned a property with his ex, which has since been sold, and he is currently renting a flat.

We’ve been discussing the possibility of taking the next steps and moving in together, with him being more eager than I am. However, I’m not sure how everything works. I would be perfectly happy staying in my current house and living together here, but I realise I need to protect myself. Surely, I can’t just add him to the mortgage without having a formal agreement in place first?

I made a significant deposit when I purchased the house and have also invested in renovations and repairs over the years.

Any tips? Should I reach out to a solicitor?

OP posts:
BuffaloCauliflower · 26/05/2025 13:00

Unless you’re also really keen, don’t move in together. If you do, you don’t need to give him a stake in your property. He can contribute to bills and you pay the mortgage, it doesn’t have to be a joint asset especially as you’ve not been together long and aren’t married

Scottishskifun · 26/05/2025 13:00

It would be a case of not putting him on the mortgage and deeds until either you decide to get married. If you decide to get married then you can get a legal document drawn up which protects your interests.

You can have this document if you decide not to get married but if on the mortgage then entitled to a share in the event that you split. Depending on where you are in the country depends on what the document is called.

Paperthin · 26/05/2025 12:58

Don’t move in together unless you are ready. You saying he is more eager tells me you are feeling like you ‘should’ . You don’t have to .

Fitzcarraldo353 · 26/05/2025 12:56

Yes you should and you don't need to add him to mortgage it gives him any stake in your house at all at this point.