Alberta Home, Cohabitation and Property Division

Reviewed October 2026. Alberta property division depends on marriage or adult-interdependent-partner status, the Family Property Act, ownership, agreements, contributions and the full family situation.

Adult interdependent partners

A relationship may qualify based on a relationship of interdependence and the applicable legal requirements, including the length of cohabitation, a child of the relationship or a formal agreement. Do not assume a simple common-law label answers the legal question.

Family property

Property division is not determined only by whose name appears on title. Property brought into a relationship, gifts, inheritances, growth in value, debts and the family home may be treated differently. Courts consider the legislation and the facts.

Protect contributions

If parents contribute to a purchase, clarify whether the money is a gift or loan and obtain independent legal advice. Cohabitation or property agreements may help, but they must be prepared and signed properly.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Speak with an Alberta family lawyer before relying on it.

Official source: https://www.alberta.ca/adult-interdependent-relationships