Debunking the myths about property guardianship
Myth #1: Guardian properties are in poor condition and not well-maintained
Reality: LOWE properties are actively maintained
One of the main concerns that potential guardians raise with us is the standard of the properties they will move into. Notions of moving into ill-equipped, unhygienic spaces, facilities not working correctly, and safety hazards everywhere unsurprisingly leave would-be guardians feeling wary. However, our guardians can rest assured that whether the property has been in recent use, squatted in, or abandoned for an extended period of time, compliance audits and extensive fit-outs are carried out prior to guardians moving in.
Ongoing maintenance of our properties is also managed by our in-house help desk and maintenance teams. Monthly inspections carried out by our property inspectors additionally identify maintenance issues and report them back to the Property team to be addressed.
QR codes posted around buildings take guardians to an online portal to report maintenance issues. From there they are triaged by our help desk and attended to by our team of maintenance operatives.
You can read more about our inspections policy here.
Myth #2: You could end up homeless at a moment’s notice
Reality: LOWE provides minimum notice periods in cases of property handbacks
Many people considering guardianship are hesitant to do so because they worry that they could be turfed out of the property without any warning and left without anywhere to live.
While property guardianship is a flexible housing option, it’s not as unstable as people assume. LOWE has a minimum 28-day notice period, so if a property owner decides to do something different with the building, tenants have four weeks to make alternative plans.
If you do receive notice to vacate your current property, where possible, we work alongside you to find an alternative option. We also have extensive vetting processes designed to reduce any undue stress for our guardians. Affordability checks, minimum age requirements, verification of income and assessment of alternative living options are all part of ensuring that our guardians are individuals who will not be unfairly affected by a property handback.
Myth #3: Guardians must remain at the property 24/7 and are expected to deal with antisocial behaviour
Reality: Being a property guardian does NOT mean being a security guard
Property guardianship is a mutually beneficial relationship for both the guardians and property owners. However, many confuse the term “guardian” to imply that they will be expected to physically protect the property from squatters or criminals, and not adhering to the responsibility could make them liable for any damage or other issues that may occur.
In reality, guardianship is about occupation—not security work. While you will be expected to look after the property in the same way you would a standard rental, it is not your responsibility to safeguard the property against criminals or squatters or to deal with antisocial behaviour. You will not be required to be at the property all the time. While you must let us know if you’ll be away for longer than 14 consecutive nights, our guardians generally live normal lives with work, socialising, and travel.
Myth #4: Guardianship is just another word for squatting
Reality: Property guardianship is a legitimate, legal Housing solution
There is a huge difference between becoming a property guardian and squatting. Becoming a guardian means entering into a legally binding agreement and paying a monthly license fee. Squatters enter a property without permission and establish their legal right to be there against the owner’s consent.
LOWE works directly with building owners, ensuring all arrangements are above board and all contracts are in place and signed by both parties so everyone understands both their rights and responsibilities.
Myth #5: Guardianship is just a “cheap rent” scheme with no real benefits
Reality: More than just great value– A lifestyle choice
The myth is that guardians only become so as a last resort, because they can’t afford to live anywhere else. This is absolutely not the case. While it’s true that property guardianship offers affordable living in desirable areas that might be otherwise expensive, it’s not just about cheap rent. In fact, most property guardians cite that affordability is just one of the many important benefits that contributed to their decision to become property guardians.
Benefits of becoming a LOWE property guardian include gaining access to wonderful, unique properties that are full of character and quirks. Many have unusually large communal areas and bedrooms which are bright and spacious too. Former schools, offices and fire stations are among some of the buildings that have been converted for guardianship.
The flexible living arrangements for property guardians are also ideal for those who don’t want to be tied into long-term rental agreements. Most tenancies ask for a minimum six-to-twelve month commitment, so if you have the kind of lifestyle where you prefer not to be tied into a longer contract, property guardianship is ideal.
Property guardianship also offers unique opportunities to live in a more communal way. Many buildings have more bedrooms than in a typical rental property, as well as communal spaces to socialise and have fun. This type of vibrant community living is highly attractive to many of our guardians who make lifelong friendships with their housemates.
Want to hear more about life as a property guardian? Learn from those who have lived the guardian lifestyle – and why they love it!
Myth #6: Property guardians have no rights or say in their living conditions
Reality: LOWE prioritises guardian welfare
Guardians are not tenants but still have rights and protections. If you choose to become a property guardian with LOWE we make sure that UK government and HMO guidelines are adhered to and ensure that our guardians are treated fairly.
Property guardians can expect transparent communication from the outset. They will be informed about their rights, responsibilities, and any upcoming property changes. There are also official processes in place for any complaints or feedback so that guardians are able to raise any concerns they have and that these are documented and addressed promptly.
Why property guardianship could be right for you
While becoming a property guardian may seem daunting, it’s important to understand that many misconceptions about property guardianship simply aren’t true.
Becoming a property guardian means enjoying affordable, flexible, and community-driven living in unique spaces while still having protection and legal rights to ensure your time as a guardian is safe and enjoyable.
Are you ready to explore more about LOWE Guardians properties and consider applying today? If you have any questions, get in touch with our friendly team, who are more than happy to help.
Want to read more about what it’s like to be a property guardian and discover whether it’s right for you? Our journal, The LOWE Down, has excellent information, including stories from guardians themselves. You might also want to take a look at our FAQ section.