Yes, you can legally separate while living together if you maintain separate lives under the same roof

In Ontario, couples can be considered legally separated even while sharing a home, provided they demonstrate a clear breakdown of their marriage or relationship. This arrangement, known as “separation under the same roof,” requires couples to establish distinct living patterns.

To prove a valid separation while cohabitating, couples must demonstrate:

• Sleeping in separate bedrooms
• Maintaining separate finances and bank accounts
• Preparing and eating meals separately
• Dividing household responsibilities independently
• No longer presenting themselves as a couple socially
• Communicating to family and friends about the separation

This living arrangement often occurs due to financial constraints or co-parenting responsibilities. However, couples should document their separation date and living arrangements to support any future legal proceedings.