Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Legal · Joint ownership
Joint property after a death
Joint tenantssurvivorship
Tenants in commonby will
Checkthe title
Severif needed
In short: If you own as joint tenants, the surviving owner automatically becomes the sole owner, whatever the will says; they update HM Land Registry with a death certificate. If you own as tenants in common, each owner's share passes under their will or the intestacy rules, so the survivor may share ownership with the deceased's heirs. Check the title register for a restriction indicating tenants in common. Mortgages continue and must be dealt with. A joint tenancy can be severed by written notice to change to tenants in common.
| Joint tenants | Tenants in common | |
|---|---|---|
| On death | Survivor owns all | Share passes by will |
| Shares | Equal, undivided | Can be unequal |
| Best for | Couples wanting simplicity | Unequal contributions, blended families |
Ownership types
Frequently asked questions
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How do I know how we own?
Check the title register for a Form A restriction.
Can I change it?
Yes, by severing the joint tenancy.
Selling an inherited share?
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