You and your partner own a house together. The legal wording decides what happens when one of you dies.
Joint tenants
The survivor automatically inherits the whole property — even if your Will says otherwise.
Tenants in common
You each own a distinct share, which you can leave to whoever you like in your Will.
Why does this matter? Because the wrong ownership can scupper your tax planning, leave children out, or create fights between step-families.
Real example: A client assumed their Will left half the house to their children. In fact, they owned as joint tenants, so the whole property passed to the spouse — and the kids missed out.
Extra nuance: Changing ownership from joint tenants to tenants in common can unlock planning options, like using both spouses’ allowances or leaving part of the house in trust.
Practical tip: Check your title deeds. It’s a ten-minute job that could save thousands.
Call to action: Check how you own your own home.
Back to You are not Immortal – a practical guide to a delicate topic – IHT
