Ever wondered how City Guardians got started? We sat down with our founder for a behind-the-scenes chat about where it all began, the highs and lows of the journey so far, and the passion that keeps it all going. Spoiler: it’s all about people, purpose, and a whole lot of building inspections. Let’s dive in!
Tell us a little about yourself, any hobbies, interests outside of work?
Well, my names Rob. I’m originally from South Africa. Outside of work I like to keep active with triathlon training, the odd half-Ironman, golf (which I try my best to play!) and cricket are my go-to activities. I love anything team-oriented, really. I also love spending time with my family, and, at the moment, our Australian Labradoodle puppy is taking up a lot of my time.
What is your background in property?
I’ve been in property since 2005, starting as a trader, then moving into property management and development. Over the years, I’ve bought, developed, and sold over 1,000 properties. In hindsight, I really wish I had come across the guardian model earlier as it’s such a great way to benefit both property owners and those in need of affordable housing. I’ve done everything from trading 2-up 2-downs to building multi-million-pound executive homes, which means at City Guardians we can offer our clients solid development expertise and oversight when it comes to fit-out works and compliance.
What inspired you to start City Guardians, and how did the idea come to life?
Having worked in development, I’ve learned a lot about the costs of vacant property and security. I stumbled upon the guardianship model and immediately saw it as a win-win for both property owners and developers. It also addressed the pressing need for affordable housing, particularly for key workers. I realised guardianship could solve two problems at once; protecting empty properties and providing affordable homes on a temporary basis.
What drew you to the guardianship model?
When I was managing my own development sites, I saw firsthand how expensive property security and business rates could get. That’s when I met Sarah Mayers, who had extensive experience in social housing and the guardianship market. We saw the opportunity and decided to set up City Guardians in early 2024. It was a natural fit for us both.
How do you think City Guardians is doing things differently, when compared with other guardianship companies?
We’re a small, tight-knit team, which means we can offer a personal touch. Sarah and I still tend to meet clients and review new proposals ourselves, making sure we’re getting the best outcomes. We’re really client-focused and believe in giving guardians a good living space, not just ticking boxes. We’re responsive, forward-thinking, and always looking for ways to repurpose properties to benefit both owners and guardians.
What’s been the most fulfilling aspect of leading City Guardians?
It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the impact we’ve had, not just on property owners but on the guardians too. There’s something special about receiving a testimonial where guardians share how our service has genuinely improved their lives. Knowing we’re making a real difference, providing safe, affordable housing, and securing properties that might otherwise be left to deteriorate is what drives me every day.
What building or property has been the most interesting for you to work on?
The most memorable for me was a squatted building in South London. It had been managed by a different guardian firm, but squatters had moved in after the owner served notice to gain planning permission. We spent a small fortune clearing the building and fitting it out, but it was worth it to see how quickly we turned it around for the new guardians to call home. It showed how vigilant you need to be, and how things can fall apart when things aren’t managed well. Note to owners; don’t assume a day or two will be fine! Call us!
How do you ensure that City Guardians stays ahead of industry trends and continues innovating?
We’re always looking for new ways to improve, whether that’s by using the latest technology or keeping an ear to the ground on property market changes. We listen to both owners and guardians to make sure we’re ahead of the curve and always looking for ways to do things better.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to property owners looking to protect their vacant properties?
Act early. Don’t wait for something to go wrong. Secure your property with reliable guardians as soon as it’s vacant to prevent squatting, vandalism, or worse. Proactive protection is always cheaper and more effective than dealing with the aftermath.
Can you share a memorable success story or moment that really highlights the impact of City Guardians’ service?
One of the most rewarding aspects of what we do is seeing how much our guardians appreciate being part of the City Guardians community. Our team goes above and beyond to personally vet each guardian, getting to know them and assessing them on their own merits. This personal touch has helped us onboard many guardians who were rejected by other firms, and it’s fantastic to see them thrive in a safe, affordable home.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned as a business owner?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is the value of listening. It’s easy to get caught up in your own vision, but staying open to feedback and adapting to the needs of your clients and team is what truly drives success. Flexibility and responsiveness are key.
What’s next for City Guardians? Any exciting plans or projects in the pipeline?
We’ve got some exciting plans to expand into new areas and continue to grow our network of guardians. We’re always looking for innovative ways to repurpose spaces and offer more affordable housing solutions. Stay tuned as we’ve got big things ahead!
