A Bill to provide certain protections for persons who live together or have lived together as a couple; to make provision about the property of deceased persons survived by a cohabitant; and for connected purposes
House of Lords
5 May 2021
May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.
The Cohabitation Rights Bill would give specific protections to people who live with a partner, or who have lived with a partner in the past. It would set out rules about what happens to a cohabitant's share of property when their partner dies, and cover related housing and property questions. In short, it aims to recognise and support non-married couples in housing and property matters.
The bill originated in the Lords, had its first reading in February 2020, and is currently at its second reading in the Lords. It has not yet progressed to committee or report stages.
Generated 21 February 2026
6 Feb 2020
First reading took place on 6 February. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords.
Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - is yet to be scheduled.
The 2019-2021 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
