Common-law partners in Quebec: What the new 2025 rules mean for you

Since June 30, 2025, the Quebec government has enacted major changes affecting common-law partners, particularly concerning family property. Here's what you need to know if you're living in a common-law relationship.

1. A minimum level of protection now granted

Until now, common-law partners had no automatic protection in the event of separation, regardless of the number of years living together or whether they had children. Now, after 3 years of cohabitation or upon the birth of a child, certain protections apply:

Sharing of the family residence
Sharing of certain essential household goods
Right to spousal support in some cases

2. What this means for your mortgage

If you buy a property with your common-law partner, the new rules may have consequences:

In the event of separation, equitable sharing of the home can now be claimed, even without being married.
It's more important than ever to specify each person’s share in the notarized deed or to sign a cohabitation agreement.

3. Why consult a mortgage broker and a notary?

Family situations are increasingly varied and complex. A broker can help you:

Properly structure your purchase
Choose the right type of financing
Anticipate legal and tax implications in the event of separation or death

4. A good time to review your protections

Whether you already own a home or are in the process of buying, this is a great time to review:

Your wills
Your life and disability insurance
Your cohabitation or separation agreements

TERMS	BANKS	MORTGAGE PLANNERS
1 Year Fixed	7.14%	4.89%
2 Years Fixed	6.69%	4.24%
3 Years Fixed	6.35%	4.04%
3 year closed Variable	6.35%	4.95%
4 Years Fixed	6.29%	4.04%
5 Years Fixed	6.34%	4.04%
5 years Variable	5.40%	4.20%
Refinance Fixed or variable	8.15%	4.19%
7 Years Fixed	6.69%	4.59%
10 Years Fixed	7.14%	5.04%
HELOC	5.95%	5.45%

TERMS

BANKS

MORTGAGE PLANNERS

1 Year Fixed

7.14%

4.89%

2 Years Fixed

6.69%

4.24%

3 Years Fixed

6.35%

4.04%