Living Together? Here's Why You Might Need a Cohabitation Agreement

WWE superstar and actor John Cena has recently come back into the spotlight after making the headlines a few years ago about his cohabitation agreement. Before moving in with his, then, finance, he required her to sign a 75-page contract outlining everything from household responsibilities to guest visitation rights. While many were surprised at the level of detail (and control), John Cena’s agreement brought a crucial topic into the spotlight: Cohabitation Agreements.

Though you will not need a document as restrictive or exhaustive as his, there is a valuable lesson to be learnt: living with a partner without legal clarity can lead to misunderstandings, disputes and even costly legal battles down the road.

What is a Cohabitation Agreement?

A cohabitation agreement is a legal contract between two people who live together but are not married, or are in a civil partnership. It sets out the financial and practical arrangements of your shared life, both during your time together and in the event the relationship breaks down.

These agreements normally include topics like:

• Property ownership and division;
• Payment of bills and household expenses;
• Responsibility for debts;
• Division of personal/joint assets;
• Arrangements for children and/or pets.

The beauty of these agreements is the flexibility, unlike a prenup, which deals with mostly asset protection in marriage. A cohabitation agreement is tailored to your unique living situation.

Why even consider one?

Moving in together is an exciting time, but it is also a big commitment that goes beyond sharing a Netflix account and splitting the rent.

Here are some reasons why a Cohabitation Agreement is a smart move:

• Clarity and transparency: You both understand your rights and responsibilities upfront.

• Financial protection: If one of you contributes more to rent, the mortgage, or home improvements, that contribution can be recognised and safeguarded.

• Conflict prevention: Discussing and documenting expectations helps avoid miscommunications later on.

• Legal Protection: Unlike married couples, cohabitating partners have very limited rights under the law if the relationship breaks down. An agreement helps fill that legal gap.

• Peace of mind: You can focus on building your life together, knowing you have addressed the ‘what ifs.’

John Cena’s cohabitation agreement was famously rigid, with clauses requiring his partner to vacate the property within a certain timeframe upon breakdown, restriction on household guests and even nutrition/exercise. While this level of control is not necessary, nor advisable, it did underscore one important principle: setting clear boundaries before problems arise.

Of course, your agreement should reflect mutual respect and balance and not be a full list of one sided demands. This is where proper legal guidance becomes essential.

Let’s talk about your future

Living together is a big step. Make it a secure one.

If you are considering moving in with your partner or are already living together without an agreement in place, now is the time to act. A cohabitation agreement does not mean you expect to break up, it means you are planning ahead and being responsible.

How we can help

At Everys, we help couples create fair, practical and legally sound cohabitation agreements that suit you and your living situation.

Whether you are:

• Moving in together for the first time
• Blending families
• Buying a property together
• Protecting assets or income

We will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to final drafting. Our approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and designed to give you peace of mind.

If you would like to speak with one of our expert Family Lawyers, then please get in touch. Call one of our offices or email [email protected].