Families and relationships

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

Living with other people can be complicated - whether they are family members, your husband, wife or civil partner, an opposite sex or same sex partner. Your rights will vary depending on the legal status of your relationship and whether you own or rent your home.

This area of law is very complex, so you may need face-to-face advice about your individual circumstances. For information about ending a marriage, including divorce proceedings and  provisions for children, visit the Advice Guide website.

Living with family

Issues that may arise if you live with family. Covers the rights of people living with a partner, spouse, civil partner, or parents. Read more 

Counselling and mediation

How counselling and mediation may help if you're at risk of losing your home because of a breakdown in your relationship with your partner or family. Read more 

Relationship breakdown

This section could help you work out the options and rights you have to your home if you split up from your partner. Read more 

Civil partnerships

Civil partnerships give same-sex couples the same rights and responsibilities as married couples. They are only available to lesbian or gay couples. Read more 

Domestic violence

Explains your rights if you are experiencing domestic violence. Read more 

Housing rights while pregnant

Explains how your housing rights are affected if you become pregnant. Read more 

Death in the household

Understand how your housing rights might be affected if someone you live with dies, and find out where to get help. Read more