---
title: "How are increases in asset value calculated when one spouse owned property before marriage? ✦ Goldwater Droit"
meta:
  "og:description": "Discover how increases in asset value from pre-marital property are calculated in Quebec family patrimony. Learn which assets are included and excluded. Learn your options."
  "og:title": "How are increases in asset value calculated when one spouse owned property before marriage?"
  description: "Discover how increases in asset value from pre-marital property are calculated in Quebec family patrimony. Learn which assets are included and excluded. Learn your options."
---

# How are increases in asset value calculated when one spouse owned property before marriage?

In Québec, when a spouse owned property before marriage, only certain increases in its value may be included in the family patrimony. Under C.c.Q. arts. 415–418 and 421–422, if the property is part of the patrimony—such as the family residence or family vehicle—its increase in market value during the marriage is subject to equal division. However, if the property is excluded (e.g., investments, business assets, or an inherited home not used as the family residence), its appreciation remains the owner’s personal property. Valuation is based on the difference between the property’s market value at marriage and at separation or divorce.

C.c.Q. art. 415–418, 421–422