For most people in the UK, a home is their most valuable asset — and how it’s owned can have a big impact on what happens to it after death.
Whether you own your property alone or jointly, the way it’s registered determines whether it passes automatically to someone else or according to your will.
At Coastal Legacy, we help homeowners across Hampshire, Fareham, Gosport, and Portsmouth understand how property ownership affects their estate planning and ensure their wishes are carried out clearly.
Types of Property Ownership
In the UK, there are two main ways to jointly own property: joint tenants and tenants in common. Each works differently when it comes to inheritance.
1. Joint Tenants
If you own your home as joint tenants, you both own the whole property equally.
When one person dies, their share automatically passes to the surviving owner through the right of survivorship — regardless of what the will says.
This means the property cannot be left to anyone else in a will.
✅ Best for: Married couples or civil partners who want the property to pass directly to the surviving partner.
2. Tenants in Common
If you own your home as tenants in common, each owner holds a specific share — which might be equal or unequal (for example, 60/40).
When one owner dies, their share does not automatically go to the other. Instead, it forms part of their estate and can be distributed according to their will.
✅ Best for: Couples who want flexibility in how their estate is shared, or those in second marriages who wish to leave their share to children from a previous relationship.
What If You Own a Property Alone?
If you’re the sole owner, your home will pass according to your will — or under intestacy laws if no will exists.
Without a will, your property might not go to the person you intend. For example, unmarried partners have no automatic inheritance rights.
Writing a will ensures your property goes exactly where you want it to.
How to Check How Your Property Is Owned
You can check your property ownership type through the Land Registry. Your title deeds will specify whether you hold it as joint tenants or tenants in common.
If you’re unsure, Coastal Legacy can help you interpret your deeds and understand what they mean for your will.
Changing How You Own Your Home
If your current ownership type no longer fits your wishes, you can change it.
- To switch from joint tenants to tenants in common, you can apply for a severance of joint tenancy.
- To revert to joint tenants, both parties must agree and update the title accordingly.
Making the right choice can help balance fairness, protect children’s inheritance, and give you greater control over your estate.
How Property Fits into Your Will
When you write your will, you’ll specify:
- Who should inherit your share of the property (if applicable)
- Whether you’d like your partner to continue living there
- Any trusts or conditions that apply
Our advisors ensure every detail is clearly expressed, protecting both your loved ones and your property rights.
Protecting Your Home and Your Family
Your home is often at the heart of your legacy. Understanding how ownership affects inheritance helps you plan with confidence and prevent future complications.
At Coastal Legacy, we make it simple to align your will with your property ownership — ensuring your home is passed on exactly as you wish.
👉 Contact Coastal Legacy today to discuss your will and property with our experienced Hampshire team.