Both parties remain jointly liable for the mortgage until it is formally resolved - regardless of who lives in the property or who moved out. If both names are on the loan, both are legally responsible for repayments. A missed payment by either party affects both credit files. The mortgage does not automatically change because you separate. It must be actively refinanced into one name, paid out through a property sale, or formally restructured as part of your property settlement.
If your former partner stops contributing to mortgage repayments, the lender will pursue both borrowers. Missed payments appear on both credit files, which can affect your ability to borrow independently in the future. If you are concerned this may happen, contact your lender early to discuss hardship options and speak to a broker about refinancing to sole name as soon as possible.
Keep all payments current - even if the split feels unfair. Protecting your credit file is critical for your future borrowing capacity. Then speak to a mortgage broker to understand your options for resolving the joint liability. The sooner the mortgage situation is addressed, the less risk both parties carry.
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