Joint tenancy and relationship breakdown
Introduction
If you have a joint tenancy and your relationship with your joint tenant has broken down and he/she has left the home, you will probably want his/her name removed from the tenancy agreement with the local authority or housing association.
Rules
If your joint tenant agrees to have their name removed, the local authority or housing association will do this. However, if they refuse to have their name removed, it is more complicated and you will have to provide evidence that the relationship has broken down.
One of the factors considered in a judicial separation, divorce or dissolution is occupation of the family/shared home. The judge can order a transfer of tenancy. If you are in a situation where a relationship is breaking down, you should seek legal advice.
If you are left living alone in the family home, the local authority or housing association may consider that your house is too big for you and offer you alternative accommodation, unless you can argue that you have occasional custody of your children and need somewhere for them to stay.
How to apply
Contact the Housing Department of your local authority or housing association.