Let’s talk about joint names! From rental leases to joint loans, there’s a few things to consider before putting your name alongside someone else’s for a legally binding financial commitment.

Co-tenancies are when two or more people are named as tenants on a tenancy agreement. This means that both co-tenants are jointly liable for all the rent and bond for a rental property.

It also means that before leaving a share home, both tenants are liable to pay their share of any costs for the home including cleaning, damage or any unpaid rent owning on the property.

If the tenancy agreement is breached, you are both financially liable and responsible for the full cost of compensation.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Whilst we never plan for a relationship breakdown, it’s important that we recognise the impacts of joint loans in case of separation.

• Be open and honest with each other about the commitment
• Seek professional advice from a financial adviser and/or lawyer about ownership and loans for future unforeseen circumstances
• Talk through an exit strategy and consider a financial agreement.
• Read more here about common issues women face when it comes to money here.