The Impact of Property Guardianship on Local Councils

Managing vacant council buildings can be costly, particularly when properties remain empty for months while awaiting redevelopment, sale or a decision on their future use.

One of the largest expenses can be security. Round-the-clock manned guarding for a single vacant building is commonly quoted at between £5,500 and £8,500 per month, potentially reaching £102,000 a year.

Property guardianship offers an alternative. By placing vetted, working people into otherwise vacant buildings under licence agreements, councils can maintain an active presence within their properties rather than relying solely on external security measures. The service is presented as a zero-cost security solution, funded through Guardian licence fees, although property owners remain responsible for relevant running costs, statutory compliance and any works required to make a building suitable for occupation.

The benefits extend beyond financial savings. Occupied buildings can be better protected against deterioration, with issues such as leaks identified earlier. Guardianship can also help reduce problems associated with long-term vacancy, including fly-tipping, complaints and additional officer time.

Guardianship is particularly suited to buildings expected to remain vacant for several months while councils plan, fund, sell or redevelop their assets. It is not a replacement for a wider security strategy, but it can provide a practical meanwhile solution.

Every vacant building carries a cost. Contact us today at enquiries@global-guardians.co.uk to discover how property guardianship could help reduce your costs, protect your vacant assets and put empty spaces back into use.