What is a Mesher order?

A Mesher order is an order which delays the sale of the family home until an event occurs which triggers a sale. The usual trigger events are a child reaching a certain age (normally 18) or completing their education, or the death or remarriage of the occupying spouse.

The purpose of a Mesher order is to provide stability for children and their primary carer by allowing them to remain in the family home for a set period. It also provides a solution where an immediate sale is not feasible or desirable, such as where the property is in negative equity.

During the Mesher order the property remains in the couple’s joint names, with their respective shares defined in the order. The person living at the property is usually responsible for paying the mortgage, bills, and maintenance costs of the property.