Breathing new life into empty care homes

When a recently vacated care home in Hampshire was awaiting sale, the property faced immediate risks, squatting, vandalism and deterioration. Our client turned to VPS Guardians for a smarter, more sustainable solution.

A smart way to secure vacant properties

Following our free site survey, our team recommended a property Guardianship solution. This approach not only protected the building from vacant property risks but also gave it a renewed purpose, providing affordable, temporary accommodation for local working people.
Thanks to the flexibility of the Guardianship model, the client retained full control and could regain vacant possession once redevelopment plans were finalised.

Ready for Guardianship: quick, compliant and cost-effective

Our experienced operations team assessed the property and found it required minimal preparation. With basic facilities in place, we installed temporary essentials like cookers and washing machines to meet HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) standards.

We ensured full compliance with health, fire and safety regulations, maintaining these standards throughout the contract period. To stay ahead of evolving legislation, we work closely with the Primary Authority Partners, Hampshire Fire and Rescue, Hampshire Trading Standard and Hampshire Environmental Health and Licensing.

Guardians in place within 10 days

Within just 10 working days, VPS had carefully vetted and placed 20 Guardians in the property. These individuals provide 24/7 on-site presence, reporting any issues throughout cloud-based maintenance system or via our 24-hour support line.
Each Guardian is selected through a robust vetting process, and a Head Guardian is appointed to oversee responsibilities like regular fire alarm checks. VPS Guardians also conducts routine inspections and ensures the property remains accessible to the client throughout planning and sale phases.

A win-win for security and social value

This project is a perfect example of how property Guardianship can transform an empty building into a secure, lived-in space that benefits both the property owner and the wider community. It’s not just about protection, it’s about purpose.