How to add your partner to the deeds
The steps, forms and checks involved in adding a partner or spouse to your home’s ownership.
Why people add a partner
Moving in together, getting married or simply wanting to share ownership fairly are the most common reasons. Adding someone means they become a legal owner, with rights to the property.
The forms involved
A change of ownership is normally made with a transfer deed (form TR1) and an application to change the register (form AP1), sent to HM Land Registry with identity evidence for everyone involved.
Check your mortgage first
If there is a mortgage, your lender must agree before anyone is added. Many lenders also want the new owner to join the mortgage. In these cases a solicitor is usually needed.
Joint tenants or tenants in common?
You will need to decide how you own the property together. Joint tenants own it equally and it passes automatically to the survivor. Tenants in common own set shares that can be left in a will. If you are unsure, take independent legal advice.
Common questions
Can I add my partner to the deeds without a solicitor?
Yes, if there is no mortgage, everyone on the title agrees and no money is changing hands. The transfer deed and application can be prepared and submitted without legal representation. Where a mortgage is involved, your lender’s consent is needed and a solicitor is usually the right choice.
Will adding my partner affect our mortgage?
Most lenders have to consent before anyone is added to the title, and many will ask the new owner to join the mortgage as well. Speak to your lender before you apply; mortgaged cases are referred to a solicitor.
Does it cost anything to add someone to the register?
HM Land Registry charges a fee to process the application, which we pass on at cost. Our own fee covers preparing the paperwork and checking it before it is submitted.
This guide is general information about England and Wales, not legal or tax advice. We prepare and submit paperwork; mortgaged or complex cases are referred to a regulated solicitor.
Let’s move things forward.
Prefer to talk to someone? Call 0800 000 0000 or email hello@example.com