Cohabitation agreements (also known as nonmarital agreements) are similar to prenuptial agreements for couples who are planning to marry—but cohabitation agreements are for people who are living together and having a sexual relationship without being married. These agreements address issues that may arise during the relationship (payment of rent and other expenses, household chores)—and issues that may arise if the cohabitation relationship ends (ownership and division of home or other property, support).
In North Carolina, cohabitation agreements, also known as nonmarital agreements, are recognized and enforceable. These agreements are designed for couples who live together without being married and want to outline the financial and property arrangements during and after their relationship. Such agreements can include terms for the payment of expenses, division of chores, and the division and ownership of property in the event the relationship ends. While North Carolina law does not specifically address cohabitation agreements, they are generally treated similarly to contracts and are subject to the same legal principles, such as the requirement of consideration, mutual assent, and legality of purpose. It is advisable for individuals entering into a cohabitation agreement to have the agreement drafted by an attorney to ensure that it is legally sound and enforceable.