Best way to have security?

[Seasidesusy]

I sold a flat and moved into my partner’s mortgaged house when we found out I was pregnant (18 months ago). I have contributed to the mortgage and bills since moving in and have put some money towards home improvements. Our original plan was to quickly sell and buy together but with the current climate, that’s not currently an issue.

As we aren’t married, I’m starting to feel anxious about my security if anything were to happen, whether that be the relationship ending or losing my partner. I have no reason to think either of these things could happen but I’m not naive to the fact that they could.

We have been researching adding a name to the deeds of the house and just getting so confused. Has anyone done this and can offer advice?

Is it enough to be added to the mortgage?

One person said we’d have to essentially buy into the house at its current value which just seems crazy?!

I’d appreciate any advice. Thank you.

Anyone got any experience?

You’re right in that you’re in an incredibly vulnerable position being pregnant and not married, while contributing to a house you dont automatically have a right to.

www.gov.uk/registering-land-or-property-with-land-registry/transfer-ownership-of-your-property

This link may help in terms of being added to the deeds - a solicitor can also help walk you through what sort of agreement you need (for example tenants in common with a declaration of trust ringfencing your DP’s deposit but ensuring you’re entitled to half the equity after that). You should also speak to DP’s mortgage company as they may want you added onto the mortgage as well.

In no way shape or form should you add yourself just to the mortgage and not the deeds.

You should also make sure you have wills, life assurance etc up to date.