What is property guardianship?
Property guardianship is experiencing huge popularity against the backdrop of the housing crisis. A combination of sky-high rents and rising house prices have made it one of the fastest growing forms of property occupation in the UK. For property owners, it’s a highly effective method to secure empty property – safe, secure and socially conscious. For those seeking affordable housing in desirable locations, becoming a property guardian has become an increasingly popular solution.
Putting vacant buildings into use as affordable living spaces ensures these derelict areas remain active and liveable. As a result, empty properties retain value and are safeguarded against issues that empty properties attract. This includes 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 and what you can expect.
Property guardian protection
Our property guardian scheme provides occupation for all property types. 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 guardian housing 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.
The housing crisis in London means that demand for vacancies there is acute, with the properties we manage there tend to getting 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 live-in guardian is rewarding and the experience is sure to open your eyes to an alternative way of living and make new friends for life.