PROTECT WHAT YOU LOVE: 1 IN 4 COHABITING COUPLES NOW HAVE A COHABITATION AGREEMENT
10 February 2025
- A survey* commissioned by Co-op Legal Services reveals that 1 in 4 cohabiting couples have a cohabitation agreement, leaving approximately three-quarters without any legal protection
- The legal services provider’s business data** shows a 200% increase in cohabitation agreement sales over the last five years
- The research findings also show that more than half (56%) of cohabiting couples co-own the property that they are currently living in together
- The average value of cohabiting couples’ combined assets is £394,000
Research commissioned by Co-op Legal Services reveals that 1 in 4 cohabiting couples in the UK now have a cohabitation agreement in place. However, this still leaves almost three-quarters (72%) of cohabiting partners without any legal protection.
According to business data from the member-owned organisation, cohabitation agreement sales have surged by 200% over the last five years. This dramatic rise is reflective of changing attitudes towards living together and a growing desire to protect shared assets, especially in relationships that aren’t formalised through marriage.
The research findings show that more than one-third (34%) of UK adults cohabiting with a partner stated they are either unsure or have no intention of getting married in the next ten years.
As an increasing number of people are choosing to live together without tying the knot, more couples are clearly considering practical steps to protect their relationship and shared assets.
There is a growing awareness of the potential benefits as over one-third (36%) of UK adults who are cohabitating with their partner without a cohabitation agreement said they would consider one in the future.
Having a cohabitation agreement in place provides formal plans for what would happen to cohabiting couples’ shared property in the event of a separation. The survey data shows that more than half (56%) of cohabiting couples co-own the property that they are currently living in together.
Almost half (48%) of respondents aged 18-24 own their property with their partner, with this figure rising to three-fifths (60%) for cohabiting couples aged over 55.
Cohabiting couples are no longer just sharing space—they are sharing significant financial investments.
The average value of assets held between cohabiting partners in the UK is now £394,000, a considerable sum that warrants protection in the event of separation. This average increases to £520,545 for those aged over 55.
While the primary focus of a cohabitation agreement is typically on property and financial assets, the survey also revealed interesting insights into what else couples want to safeguard.
Almost one-sixth (16%) of respondents listed jewellery and watches as assets they would like to protect in the event of separation. This points to a broader understanding that cohabitation agreements can go beyond traditional assets to include personal property of sentimental value.
Many couples have traditionally relied on the assumption that, like married couples, they are entitled to similar legal protections should the relationship come to an end. However, this is not the case and couples who do not have a cohabitation agreement may face complications when it comes to division of assets, property, and even responsibilities like pets.
Over two-fifths (44%) of cohabiting couples who share pets with their partners would consider including their pets in a cohabitation agreement to outline clear care arrangements should the relationship end. With pets increasingly being viewed as family members, it’s not surprising that more couples are thinking ahead about how they would manage shared responsibilities.
Ben Evans, Lead Family Law Solicitor at Co-op Legal Services, said:
“When in a relationship and cohabiting with your partner, it’s important to think about the practical steps you can take to protect your future together. Whether it’s securing your shared property, outlining care arrangements for your pets, or ensuring your valuable assets are safeguarded, a cohabitation agreement can enable you to have peace of mind."
“The number of cohabiting couples who own the property they live in together underscores the need for legal clarity regarding shared living arrangements, as many cohabiting couples will face challenges around property ownership and division should their relationship end.
“As more people opt for cohabitation instead of marriage, these agreements will continue to gain in popularity, providing a level of security in an evolving relationship landscape.”
To find out more, please visit https://www.co-oplegalservices.co.uk/
ENDS
Notes to editor
- The research was conducted by Opinion Matters, among a sample of 1,000 Respondents across the UK who are cohabiting (aged 18+). The data was collected between 27.01.2025-28.01.2025
** Co-op Legal Services’ business data
About Co-op Legal Services
Co-op Legal Services is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, providing legal services in England and Wales. It is one of the largest providers of estate planning and probate services in the UK, with specialist practices in family law, serious injury and medical negligence.
Co-op Legal Services’ mission is to help people understand the law, to use the law to protect their future and that of their loved ones. It achieves this by providing accessible, engaging, professional legal advice and support through a blend of digital and 1-2-1 specialist advice.
Co-op Legal Services is part of the Co-op Group
About Co-op Group
Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates over 2,300 food stores, over 800 funeral homes and provides products to over 4,000 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited.
Employing almost 55,000 people, the Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11billion and is a recognised leader for its social goals and community-led programmes. The Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and stand up for the things they believe in.
For further information, please contact pressoffice@coop.co.uk