Joint Tenants and Tenants in Common
When buying property together, Joint Purchasers must choose between being registered as Joint Tenants or Tenants in Common. While they might sound similar, they work in very different ways when it comes to inheritance, selling up, or separation.
If you're buying a property, planning your Will, or updating your arrangements, speak to one of GloverPriest’s specialist Joint Tenants & Tenants in Common Conveyancing Solicitors today.
How GloverPriest Can Help
We help individuals, couples and co-owners understand exactly what Joint Tenancy and Tenants in Common mean – and how those choices affect their future.
Whether you’re purchasing your first home, investing in property, or planning ahead with your Will, we’ll explain your options in plain English and help you make the right legal decision for your situation.
We can also support you in switching ownership types later on, if your circumstances change.
If you’re ready to take the next step:
Joint Tenancy vs Tenants in Common - The Key Details
What is Joint Tenancy?
With Joint Tenancy, you both own the whole property equally.
If one person dies, the property automatically passes to the other Joint Tenant(s) (regardless of their Will).
What is Tenants in Common?
Each person owns a defined share (e.g. 50/50 or 70/30).
If one person dies, their share forms part of their estate and passes according to their Will.
Commonly, Tenants in Common (Joint Ownership) is used where people contribute different amounts or want to protect children’s inheritance. Tenancy in Common ownership may also be more suitable for clients with assets over the Inheritance Tax Threshold, or for clients who wish to protect assets where care home fees may be a potential concern.
Which is right for you?
This depends on your personal situation – including how you’re funding the purchase, your relationship, and your long-term plans. We’ll help you weigh up the pros and cons and document your choice correctly.
Can I switch between the two?
Yes. You can “sever” a Joint Tenancy to become Tenants in Common, or vice versa. A Joint Tenancy can be converted to a 50:50 share (Tenancy in Common) by any individual legal owner with legal capacity.
A Tenancy in Common can be converted to a Joint Tenancy with the consent and cooperation of all owners.
We’ll handle the legal paperwork and make sure your interests are protected.
Want to learn more?
You can read more about the key differences between Joint Tenants and Tenants in Common on our dedicated blog here.
Why Choose GloverPriest
You’ll get straightforward advice from experienced residential conveyancing solicitors who genuinely care about getting things right. You can also expect:
With GloverPriest, you won’t be left guessing. Just clear guidance and personal support.
Get In Touch Today
Understanding your joint ownership options now can save stress later. If you're buying a property, planning ahead with your Will, or thinking about updating your arrangements – we’re here to help.
Speak to one of our team today for clear advice on Joint Tenants vs Tenants in Common, by choosing one of the options below:
FAQs
Do I need a Declaration of Trust with Tenants in Common?
No, however, it’s highly recommended. A Declaration of Trust sets out who owns what and what happens if the property is sold or someone wants to move on.
Can Joint Tenants have different shares?
No. Joint tenants always own the property equally, regardless of who paid what.
Can I leave my share of the property to someone else?
Only if you’re listed as Tenants in Common. If you’re joint tenants, your share automatically goes to the other owner.
