Affordable housing through property guardianship
Sky-high rents and rocketing house prices have made property guardianship one of the fastest growing forms of property occupation in the UK and a means for working professionals and key workers to secure affordable housing. For property owners, using property guardians is a safe, secure and socially conscious way to secure empty property. For those seeking affordable housing in desirable locations, becoming part of this movement is an increasingly popular solution.
Putting vacant buildings into use as affordable living spaces ensures otherwise derelict areas remain active and liveable. This results in empty properties retaining value and safeguarding against issues that empty properties attract including squatting, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour. Guardianships can vary in length, from as little as three months to over a year.
Scroll down to read our FAQs and find out about life as a property guardian.
Property guardian protection
Our scheme provides occupation for all types of affordable housing. This includes residential, retail and office premises. Our guardians comprise key-workers and young professionals, all subject to a rigorous selection criteria to ensure suitability.
Property guardian requirements:
- Over 21 years of age
- In full-time employment or a mature student
- Non-smoker
- Do not have household pets
- Do not have a criminal record
Additional requirements prior to move-in:
- Photographic ID (Passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address (current utility bill or bank statement)
- Employment reference (if you have been in your current role for at least 12 months)
- Character reference (from someone you have known for at least 3 years)
- CRB check
What to expect from property guardianship
One of the things that appeals to individuals in becoming a property guardian is they share values around community and alternative ways of living. In addition, with the price of buying a property increasing becoming out of reach for so many, property guardianships provide an excellent method of helping save money towards a deposit.
We have opportunities at various locations across the UK, both in towns and more rural areas. Guardians are required to sign a code of conduct before any occupation. This ensures they maintain standards of respect for each other and the property they live in. This contributes to a community where everyone can live in harmony.
Demand for guardianship housing in London is especially popular, and the properties we manage there tend to get filled very quickly. If you are able to move at short notice then you will usually find it easier to secure a property through us.
In conclusion, life as a property guardian is rewarding and the experience is sure to open your eyes to an alternative way of living and make new friends for life.