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LONDON — In a once-thriving cathedral in central London, a stained-glass window casts a dappled glow on a priest’s quarters, where three people have lived in the past two years. This is one of the many examples of disused properties being repurposed as live-in guardianships, where individuals pay a monthly fee to occupy a property that is often slated for demolition or redevelopment.
The practice, popularized by companies like Live-in Guardians, is unregulated in Britain and has sparked concerns over the legal protection of residents. Despite this, the demand for guardianships is soaring, with over 13,500 people living as guardians in Britain, according to estimates.
As the cost of living crisis worsens, more people are seeking cheaper ways to live, and live-in guardianships have become a viable option for those in their 30s and 40s. Luke Williams, a 45-year-old project manager, has saved “thousands and thousands of pounds” as a guardian over the past six years, enjoying the unique living arrangements and quirky spaces.
However, the practice is not without its drawbacks. Residents often face inconvenient or hazardous conditions, such as no access to drinkable tap water or rickety ceilings. Ben Twomey, chief executive of Generation Rent, a non-profit campaigning for renters’ rights, notes that the average rent in London meets the government’s definition of “unaffordable,” eating up more than 30% of a renter’s pre-tax income.
For many, guardianships have become a lifeline. Graham Sievers, chair of the Property Guardian Providers Association, estimates that over 50,000 people applied to become guardians via the association’s three member companies last year, a 67% increase from 2022. While traditionally appealing to young adults, more people in their 30s and 40s are now seeking guardianships as the cost of renting continues to rise.
Despite the benefits, not all guardians have positive experiences. Charley Hullah, a 31-year-old musician, has been a guardian in six properties since 2013, often encountering poor conditions and little regard for safety. The PGPA has introduced regulations to ensure providers meet certain standards, but many providers argue that the industry is in need of government regulation to ensure the well-being of residents.
As the UK government continues to face pressure to address the housing crisis, live-in guardianships have become a symptom of the issue. With over 300,000 homes needed to be built each year in England alone, it remains unclear whether this trend will continue to provide a solution for those struggling to afford housing.
