What are the Key Responsibilities of a Live-in Property Guardian?
Being a property guardian means so much more than living cheaply in a vacant space.
Guardianship is a real opportunity. An opportunity that’s affordable, flexible, and rooted in a sense of responsibility.
It’s also a mutually beneficial setup. You get a place to live at a fraction of the cost of renting, and in return, you help protect a building that would otherwise sit empty and exposed to risk.
But with that opportunity comes some responsibility. When you become a property guardian, you’re not just getting access to a unique living space, you’re taking on an important role. You’re there to keep the property safe, cared for, and secure.
So, what exactly does that involve?
Understanding the Responsibilities of a Property Guardian
Quite simply, the main job of a property guardian is to look after the space they live in. But that goes beyond just turning the lights off and locking the door.
Here’s what property guardians need to do to keep their spaces protected, functional, and compliant.
Looking after the Property Day-to-Day
First and foremost, guardians keep properties safe with their daily presence.
Empty buildings are magnets for trouble. Squatters, vandals, and fly-tippers are far more likely to target a space that looks neglected. So by simply living in a space, you’re helping deter all of these potential problems.
While being a guardian doesn’t mean being a security guard, you are expected to report anything suspicious straight away. That could be a broken window, a faulty lock, or signs someone’s tried to access the site. You don’t have to put yourself in danger. Your job is to raise the flag, not resolve the issue yourself.
Being switched on to general security is also a big part of guardianship. Making sure doors are locked, windows are secure, and the space is clear all comes with the role.
Ultimately, it’s about being a responsible, alert resident who cares about the space.
Keeping the Space Clean and Livable
You don’t need to be a neat freak, but living in a space responsibly means keeping it in good condition.
That includes general cleanliness. It also means noticing things others might miss, like leaks, damp patches, pest activity, or anything that might signal a bigger issue in the making.
If the post starts piling up by the door, you deal with it. If the outside area is starting to look untidy or attract litter, you flag it or sort it.
These small actions make a huge difference to how the property is perceived and how well it holds up over time.
Staying in Touch and Granting Access
As a property guardian, you’ll need to allow access for approved staff and contractors when necessary.
That might be for fire safety checks, inspections, or general maintenance. Your flexibility and cooperation keep the service running smoothly and ensure the property stays compliant.
Because guardianships are different from tenancies, part of your responsibility is allowing access when needed.
Being Part of the Community
One of the best parts of becoming a property guardian is knowing that your presence makes a difference to the area around you.
Vacant buildings left to decline can pull a neighbourhood down. But when a space is visibly lived in, looked after, and contributes to the local vibe, it all changes.
So, you’re not just helping a property owner keep things secure. You’re helping keep the wider community intact.
The Benefits of Being a Guardian (and Why the Responsibility is Worth It)
Let’s be honest, being a property guardian comes with more responsibility than being a typical renter. But it also comes with a lot more flexibility and value.
You’re not tied into a long-term lease. You’re not paying sky-high rent. And you’re often living in interesting, spacious, or central properties that would be completely out of reach on the open market.
You also avoid many of the typical stresses of renting. No bidding wars, endless fees, or inflated deposits. What you do have is a clear agreement, a fair cost, and the chance to live somewhere while doing something meaningful in return.
For many guardians, the responsibility is part of the appeal. You’re a trusted part of a community. And you’re helping prevent waste, neglect, and deterioration in spaces that still have a lot to give.
Ready to Become a Property Guardian?
Guardianship is not just an alternative way to live. It’s a smarter, more responsible way to make the most of buildings that still have life in them. All this while saving money, gaining flexibility, and making a positive impact along the way.
If you’re over 21, in full-time employment, and up for the challenge, we’d love to hear from you. At City Guardians, we carefully match people to properties, support our guardians throughout their stay, and make sure everyone’s clear on what’s expected.
If you’re ready to live with purpose, apply to become a property guardian today.
