Will Your Partner Inherit Your Property If You Die?
If you’ve recently bought a home, congratulations again! But now comes the crucial next step: ensuring your new investment, and everything it means for your family’s future, is protected.
One of the most common misconceptions among UK homeowners is that your partner will automatically inherit your property if you die. Sadly, the reality is far more complicated, especially if:
- You're not married or in a civil partnership
- You own as tenants in common rather than joint tenants
- You haven’t made a legally binding Will
Understanding Intestacy in the UK: Who Really Gets What?
If you die without a Will, you are said to die intestate. This means that your estate, including your property, is divided according to UK intestacy laws, not your personal wishes.
Under intestacy law:
- Unmarried partners are not entitled to inherit anything, no matter how long you've been together.
- If you're married and have children, your spouse may only receive part of the estate.
- Your cohabiting partner could be left out completely, even if you jointly bought the home or have lived together for decades.
Without proper estate planning, your loved ones could face:
- Legal disputes
- Delays in accessing funds
- The potential loss of the home they live in
Tenants in Common vs Joint Tenants: Why It Matters
If you and your partner own the property as:
- Joint tenants: The other person automatically inherits your share.
- Tenants in common: Your share becomes part of your estate and without a Will, it does not automatically go to your partner.
Understanding how you own your home is key to planning for the future. Soteria Planning can help you review your ownership status and create a Will that aligns with it.
How a Will Protects Your Partner (and Prevents Heartache)
A legally binding Will gives you the power to:
- Choose exactly who inherits your home and other assets
- Ensure your partner is protected, even if you're not married
- Appoint trusted executors to manage your estate
- Avoid costly and emotionally draining legal disputes
It’s not just about assets, it’s about clarity, compassion, and care for those you leave behind.
Soteria Planning: Trusted Estate Planning for Avocado Property Clients
At avocado property, we’re proud to partner with Soteria Planning, experts in creating straightforward, legally sound Wills for homeowners like you.
Their process is:
- Simple and guided (no legal jargon)
- Designed with empathy and discretion
- Transparent on costs and outcomes
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a property investor, or buying with a partner, Soteria will help ensure your intentions are clearly protected.
✅ Next Step: Secure What You’ve Built, Protect Who You Love
Don’t leave your partner’s future to chance.
A Will is one of the most powerful documents you’ll ever create and it doesn’t have to be difficult.
