Property Guardians
A unique, affordable way to live in great spaces.
Looking for somewhere short/medium term to rent with low costs? Become a Property Guardian and unlock affordable living spaces across the country. VPS offer unique properties throughout the UK with low monthly costs without long-term commitments.
What is Property Guardianship?
Property guardianship is a living arrangement where individuals, known as guardians, occupy vacant buildings to keep them secure and maintained, often at a lower cost than traditional renting. From the perspective of a potential guardian, it’s a unique opportunity to live in interesting or unconventional spaces: like old schools, offices, or care homes—while helping prevent vandalism or squatting.
You don’t have the same rights as a tenant, and the arrangement is usually more flexible and short-term, but in exchange, you get affordable accommodation and a chance to be part of a community of like-minded people who value alternative living. It’s ideal for someone adaptable, responsible, and open to a different kind of housing experience. In return, the property owner gets the inherent protection of a building being occupied rather than vacant.
How Does Property Guardianship Work?
At VPS we carefully select Guardians who meet our high standards, not just to protect properties but to be part of a respectful community in great places to live. We want you to feel supported and heard, with open lines of communication whenever you need us. Once you’ve reviewed and signed our VPS Guardian Licence Agreement; you’ll have the opportunity to live in one of our professionally managed properties at a significantly lower cost than renting privately. In return, your presence helps safeguard these spaces from risks to the property owner like squatting and vandalism.
Our clients entrust us with a wide variety of properties across the UK and Europe, and they rely on our Guardians to help keep them secure.
Currently Available Properties
Our Commitment to You
With active Guardians businesses in the UK, France and Netherlands, our Guardians model has been trusted across Europe to protect a wide range of vacant properties with care, professionalism and proven results. Here are some of the key benefits and commitments that make becoming a Guardian a great choice:
- Your deposit, returned fast. We commit to getting your deposit back to you within 28 days.
- Emergencies? We’re on it. Urgent repairs are handled within 48 hours.
- Safe and Sound. All properties meet legal safety standards, so you can rest easy.
- No surprises. We provide, clear, upfront costs for you from day one.
- Time to plan. You’ll always get a minimum of 28 days’ notice before any changes, and we always encourage our property owners to give more where possible.
Why Become A Property Guardian
Guardianship offers you the chance to live in interesting, often centrally located properties at a fraction of typical rental costs, all while helping to protect and maintain empty buildings. It’s a flexible, community-minded lifestyle that suits people who are responsible, adaptable, and looking for something a little different.
Why Become A Property Guardian
Guardianship offers you the chance to live in interesting, often centrally located properties at a fraction of typical rental costs, all while helping to protect and maintain empty buildings. It’s a flexible, community-minded lifestyle that suits people who are responsible, adaptable, and looking for something a little different.
Low commitment, high flexibility
With no long-term lease obligations, VPS Guardian living is especially attractive to freelancers, creatives and remote workers who value mobility, independence and cost-effectiveness. It’s a low-commitment lifestyle that allows for spontaneity, whether you’re chasing a new job opportunity, exploring a different city or simply seeking a more affordable way to live.
Contribute to the community by keeping buildings active
Guardianship isn’t just about affordable rents; it’s also about social impact. By occupying otherwise vacant buildings, Guardians help prevent vandalism, decay, and squatting while also contributing to the vitality of the surrounding neighbourhood. Many Guardians form strong bonds with their neighbours and actively participate in community life, creating a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Diverse Properties across a wide range of buildings
Guardianship with VPS offers access to a wide range of unique living spaces—many of which you might never otherwise have the opportunity to experience. From private schools to castles, our portfolio is incredibly diverse. This variety not only makes guardianship an exciting experience but also allows individuals to find the right space for them.
Flexible Terms Starting at One Month
With agreements that can start from as little as one month, this type of housing is ideal for anyone in transitional phases, whether you’re between jobs, relocating or working on a short-term project. We always encourage our property owners to give our Guardians the most notice as possible when a building will no longer be vacant, to ensure new plans can be made (the minimum is 28-days).
A Practical Solution to High Rents
Living in a VPS Guardian property can significantly reduce monthly expenses, creating valuable financial breathing room. This can free Guardians to focus on long-term goals such as travel or saving for a home of their own. Many of our properties are also in excellent city locations where conventional rents would typically be much higher.
A smart choice for financial freedom and community
For many young professionals, finding affordable housing can be a challenge, especially in cities. VPS Guardians is becoming an increasingly popular option, a form of renting that offers temporary accommodation in vacant buildings. In return, the property owner receives built-in security simply by having people living in the building.
Testimonial
"Register with VPS and be amazed by what's possible! We love living in our anti-squat house and hope to stay here for a while. This temporary living option allows you to save for future dreams."
"Register with VPS and be amazed by what's possible! We love living in our anti-squat house and hope to stay here for a while. This temporary living option allows you to save for future dreams."