How to Share a Cottage with Your Ex

While divorce is largely about dividing assets, the post-divorce period often involves some continued contact, particularly in the management of any remaining shared property or social connections.

These aspects come together when resolving how to handle continued shared space like a cottage. Here are a few ways to make sharing your cottage easier on you both:

1. Sort out the legal aspect first

Make sure that, given that you are going to share the cottage, neither party has an unfair legal advantage. Know your legal rights in terms of use and alteration of your shared property, and make sure that your former partner understands and agrees to abide by any limitations. The Family Law Act outlines some of the rules around property, but each situation is unique.

2. Ensure that you can share the space peacefully

This may include a schedule for when you can each use the cottage or instructions for appropriate notification of the other party so you don’t both bring new lovers up for a week by the lake at the same time. Establish boundaries you’re both comfortable with.

3. If you have kids, make sure they know that the cottage is still a fun place

Decide how you are going to deal with family vacations–will you ever all be at the cottage at the same time? If you think this would just create more conflict, explain the situation to your children clearly. If you are amicable and your kids see both of you on a regular basis, sharing the cottage this way may work sometimes.

Setting consistent rules regardless of who is at the cottage can give children helpful structure in making sense of their new circumstances. According to Psychology Today, letting children be children by not involving them in your conflicts and maintaining consistency in their routines are important steps to take for your children’s psychological health. Make sure that whatever you decide is comfortable for all parties.

While working out the details of the legal and practical aspects of sharing your cottage can be strenuous, the effort is worth it. Without a clear plan, you leave yourself vulnerable to continued conflict and potentially embarrassing situations. The paperwork, scheduling, and discussions around use will seem worth it once you’re both using the space.

Professional assistance can make many aspects of your divorce, including property division and sharing, simpler.

Fine & Associates: Your Family and Divorce Law Specialists

Are you going through a separation or divorce and need legal advice? Contact Fine & Associates today at (647) 496-2860. Our team of dedicated legal professionals understand that this is a challenging time for you and your family. That’s why we treat you with respect, professionalism and courtesy.