Sever joint tenancy to tenancy in common Great Bookham

Safeguard your wealth and assets for the future of your loved ones. 

Secure lasting peace of mind by creating your will today.

Tenants in Common vs Joint Tenants

Trusted Will Writing

Why Have A Will?

Secure your property and finances for future generations, ensuring the preservation of your hard-earned wealth within the family. With our writing services.

Single will

Protect Loved Ones

Minimize unnecessary inheritance taxes to ensure the financial well-being of your family and loved ones even after your demise. Contact Trusted Will Writing Great Bookham today.

why us

Peace Of Mind

Give yourself peace of mind with our Nationwide writing service across 

England, Wales and Scotland.

Easily accessible storage so you never have to worry.

When do you become Joint Tenants

When buying a property with someone else, it is common to assume that you will automatically become joint tenants. However, many people do not realise that there is another option: tenants in common.

Understanding the differences between these two forms of ownership can be crucial, particularly if your circumstances change and you need to sever your ownership with your co-owner.Contact Trusted Will Writing Great Bookham for more information.

what is joint tenancy? ​

Joint tenants collectively possess undivided and equal ownership of a property. This implies that the land is jointly owned and indivisible among the tenants, with each holding an equal share. In the unfortunate event of one tenant’s demise, their portion seamlessly transfers to the surviving owner(s) without the necessity of a will or probate. Joint tenancy commonly serves as a preferred ownership structure for married couples or partners, as it ensures the smooth transfer of their share should they pass away. Contact Trusted Will Writing Great Bookham today for a complimentary quote and personalized assistance.

Tenants in common ​

Tenants in common have separate and distinct ownership of the property. This means that each owner owns a specific share of the land which can be sold or transferred without the other tenant’s consent.

Tenants in common are not required to have equal shares and can own different percentages of the property. Unlike joint tenancy, the right of survivorship does not apply to tenants in common.

In the event of a tenant in common’s death, their share will pass to their beneficiaries as set out in their will (or intestacy rules if there is no will).

How to sever your joint tenancy​

If you want to sever your joint tenancy and become tenants in common, it is essential that you speak to Trusted Will WritingGreat Bookham. You will need to prepare a ‘Declaration of Trust’ which states that you both wish to hold the property as tenants in common and what percentage each owner will hold. 

This document will need to be registered with the Land Registry.

What do you need to consider?

When severing your joint tenancy, you may also need to consider the implications for any mortgages or loans secured against the property. If you are transferring equity to one owner, you may need to obtain consent from your lender or remortgage the property in order to release the other owner from any liability

.Contact Trusted Will Writing Great Bookham and we will answer any questions you may have regarding severing your joint tenancy.

What are the tax implications​

It is also important to think about how this change in ownership could impact your tax liabilities. There may be Capital Gains Tax implications if one owner is transferring a larger share of the property to the other.

Similarly, if one owner is paying more towards the mortgage or upkeep of the property, they may be able to claim a greater percentage of the mortgage interest against their tax bill.

Protect your share of a property​

Ultimately, the decision to sever your joint tenancy and become tenants in common will depend on your individual circumstances. If you are going through a separation or divorce, you may wish to sever your joint tenancy in order to protect your share of the property. 

Similarly, if you are co-owning a property with someone who is not your spouse or partner, becoming tenants in common may be a more appropriate option.

Is joint tenancy a popular option

Knowing the distinction between tenants in common and joint tenants is crucial for individuals who co-own a property. At Trusted Will Writing Great Bookham, we strive to provide clear explanations of these differences. While joint tenancy is commonly chosen by couples and partners, tenants in common may be a better option for those seeking separate ownership or protecting their share. If you are considering severing your joint tenancy and becoming tenants in common, get in touch with Trusted Will Writing Great Bookham today to consult our advisors for further guidance, including potential tax or mortgage implications. Engage with us and ensure your property ownership suits your unique needs.

Protect Your Family Today