I am separating from my 7 year common law partner whom I own…

Common law spouses don't have property rights in Ontario. So the court would consider contributions only.

These contributions would have to be what goes to the value of the house. The renovations would go to the value for example. Taking care of the dogs and cooking does not go to the value of the house.

As he is going to a lawyer you will need to do so as well so it would be best to start looking for one now.

I wish I had a more optimistic answer for you.

Please feel free to post back with any follow-up questions you may have. If you don't have any then I hope I have earned a 5 star rating but if you don't feel that I have please don't hesitate to reply back and let me know what more I can do to assist you. Finally, please know that even after you rate me I will be here for you and you can ask follow-up questions if you think of them later on at no further charge of course.

It is not likely the court will give you half. They court will not allow one person to be unjustly enriched to the other's detriment. Had you been legally married you would each share equally.

But you are not and there will be plenty of evidence that he paid more than you did. His parents down payment will be considered his contribution as they will testify that it was a gift to him and if it was to you it was conditional on your relationship lasting. And as he earns more I assume he pays more towards the mortgage.

I don't work for the site. I have nothing to do with refunds.

I am a senior family lawyer in Ontario. Your attitude of not wanting to hear the answer or trying to shoot the messenger is not going to help you get through the process. You are harming someone who is trying to help.

I know it is and I understand personally as well as professionally. Believe me. I completely and utterly understand though I am not supposed to speak about my personal life of course.

You will get credit for all the renos and you will testify under oath if it comes to that.