Housing Advice for People Facing a Non-Violent Relationship Breakdown
There are lots of things to think about when a relationship has broken down. If your relationship ended amicably, you could talk with your ex-partner about you both staying at the property whilst you find somewhere new to live. We understand that things might be complicated, so you may wish to seek legal advice to help you move forwards.
Do I have to leave?
This will depend on a few things. If you own the property jointly with your ex-partner, or if you have a joint tenancy agreement with your ex-partner, you may still have rights to remain living at the property together. For help to find out if you have rights to remain living at the property following a relationship breakdown, you can contact the Housing Team by:
- Calling us on 01789 260 126 / 01789 267 575
- Emailing us at homeless@stratford-dc.gov.uk
- Visiting us in person at Elizabeth House, Church Street, Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 6HX (please note our opening hours).
You can also find a legal advisor by visiting the Government's website: Find a Legal Aid Adviser or Family Mediator
If you have a joint tenancy or jointly own the property with your ex-partner, we may advise that you have rights to remain living there if it is safe for you to do so.
Please ensure you seek advice before you leave the property in order to prevent an emergency homeless situation. It can be very difficult to find accommodation, and there is no guarantee that we will have a duty to provide you with interim accommodation.
If you leave but you are still listed as a tenant or are liable for the mortgage payments, it is important you still ensure these rent or mortgage payments continue to be paid in order to avoid falling into arrears.
Where can I find more advice?
Shelter has information on their website about what to do if your relationship has ended and you think you might be facing homelessness: Homeless help from the council after relationship breakdown - Shelter England
Relate also supports people who are facing problems in their relationships, and they can offer counselling or mediation to help.
