Property Owner Checklist

Property Owner’s Checklist

You need to ask yourself the following questions to accurately evaluate whether your property is suitable for guardianship:

1. How Long Will the Building Be Vacant?

• Vacant for 6+ months?
• Awaiting planning permission or redevelopment or demolition?
• Pending sale with no fixed completion date?

Property guardianship often works best for medium-term vacancies where flexibility is required. Shorter term and longer term vacancies are of course possible, but if you need the building back quickly, you should ensure your notice terms align with your plan.

2. Is Security a Concern?

• Has the property experienced break-ins or vandalism?
• Is it located in a high-footfall or high-risk area?
• Are security patrols financially sustainable long-term?

An occupied building is significantly less attractive to trespassers than an empty one. Guardians provide a visible, human deterrent that will dissuade the vast majority of trespassers.

3. Is the Building Habitable?

• Does the property have working utilities?
• Can essential facilities (kitchens, bathrooms, heating) be installed or adapted?
• Does it meet health and safety standards?

Not every building is suitable. Offices, schools, residential blocks and care homes are often adaptable, but condition matters and careful planning is required to make sure these buildings are suitable for living. Even buildings that aren’t immediately ready can sometimes be used, with the right approach and assessment.

4. Do You Need Flexibility?

• Do your redevelopment timelines shift frequently?
• Do you want to avoid long-term tenancy agreements?

One of the key reasons owners choose guardianship is flexibility. Unlike traditional tenancies, licence agreements allow greater control over timelines. If you get the greenlight to move forward on your development project or sale next month, being able to quickly regain access to the building could save you thousands.

5. Are Holding Costs Impacting Your Budget?

• Ongoing security bills
• Insurance costs for empty buildings
• Maintenance deterioration
• Business rates liability

Guardianship reduces some of the financial pressures associated with empty properties, while keeping the asset active and monitored. The costs saved by having the building occupied usually outweigh the costs of making the building suitable for guardianship.

Choosing The Right Guardians

Now that you know whether or not your building is suitable for property guardianship, it’s important to pick a provider who can connect you with the right guardians.

At VPS Guardians, we offer:

• A thorough vetting process for guardians
• Management of compliance and inspections
• Handling of licences and day-to-day administration

The success of any guardianship arrangement relies on professional management with respect for both parties. Proper screening, regular inspections, and clear communication protect both the owner and the guardians. With the right partner and strong relationships, people move in at the right time, the property is looked after, and guardians are given appropriate notice when it’s time to return the building, ensuring a smooth, responsible process for everyone.

Should I Use Property Guardianship?

If your building is sitting empty for six months or more, costing money, and facing security risks, property guardianship can provide a flexible, lower-risk solution compared to leaving it vacant.

The key question isn’t simply “should I use property guardianship?”  it’s whether your property’s timeline, condition, and financial pressures align with the model. At VPS Guardians, we want to connect the right properties with the right people, so it’s important to have considered every factor before moving forward, allowing you to make a clear, informed decision that protects your asset while maintaining control.