Property Guardians: A Creative Solution to Housing Challenges

Living in Unique Spaces

Imagine calling a former care home, pub, or bank your home. That’s the reality for a growing number of people who are embracing the concept of property guardianship.

Katrina Woolley, a 29-year-old postgraduate student, has been living in a former care home in Hampstead, London, for the past 10 months. She shares this Edwardian mansion with around 50 others, enjoying the unique experience of living in a grand building with high ceilings and balconies.

“It’s an incredible place, quite romantic, despite being run down,” Katrina says. The building, set in 1.7 acres of gardens, boasts grand staircases, south-west-facing balconies, and even chandeliers in some rooms.

The Guardian Lifestyle

Property guardianship offers more than just a roof over your head. It’s a community-oriented lifestyle, as Katrina explains: “It’s somewhere between living in university halls, a block of flats, and a fancy squat.”

Guardians share spaces and experiences, creating a unique sense of camaraderie. Katrina lives with a diverse group, from lawyers to artists, and they regularly socialize and share meals. However, as with any shared living situation, disagreements can arise, especially over issues like noise.

The Pros and Cons

Property guardianship has its advantages and drawbacks. Guardians typically pay 30-50% less rent than private tenants, with bills often included. But this comes with fewer rights and more flexibility. Guardians can be evicted with just 28 days’ notice, and landlords can visit without warning.

David Hale, a 32-year-old guardian, has been living in a disused school in Brixton, South London, for three years. He and his wife enjoy the spaciousness and the savings, but they’re also looking to buy their own home and start a family, which means moving on from shared bathrooms and toilets.

A Growing Trend

The Property Guardian Providers Association (PGPA) estimates that there are between 10,000 and 15,000 property guardians in the UK, primarily in major cities. The number of applicants has risen sharply as rental costs soar, offering a creative solution to the housing challenge.

While guardianship provides affordable living, it’s not a long-term solution for everyone. It’s a unique and flexible option for those willing to embrace a different way of life, offering a chance to live in unusual properties and build a community.