Couple Split, Dispute Over Property

[Joeyjake]

How long can a dispute last over a house which was purchased together by a couple who were not married, but who have now split up?

One party refuses to move out and the other, who did move out, wants back what they put into the property to start with and is still paying half the mortgage to maintain their interest. Is this something that could just go on if no-one will give in?

[boxtops]

Was the property purchased in joint names?

[hc4361]

Assuming it is in joint names, the person who moved out can apply for a court order to force the one still living there to sell.
Unless there are exceptional circumstances the court will usually grant the order as it is recognised that it is unfair that one of the owners can neither realise his share of the property to buy or rent another home whilst not getting any benefit from the home.

Exceptional circumstances apply where children are involved and they still live in the home, in which case the order to sell may be postponed until the youngest is 18. This is in no way guaranteed, though. If there is enough equity in the property to allow the parent who looks after the children to buy a suitable home then the order will be made.

Profound disability may be another exceptional circumstance - for example, if the house has been specifically adapted to meet the needs of a disabled child.

[Joeyjake]

Many thanks for your responses.