Dot Dot Dot Property: Social Enterprise Guardian Scheme

Dot Dot Dot operates as a social enterprise, combining property guardianship with community benefit. Guardians are encouraged to volunteer in their local area, creating value for both property owners and neighbourhoods.

Overview

Founded	2011
Model	Social enterprise
Coverage	England (focus on urban areas)
Monthly Fees	£300-£450
Notice Period	28-56 days
Property Types	Residential, community buildings
Families	Accepted in some properties

The Social Enterprise Model

What makes Dot Dot Dot different:

• Community contribution: Guardians commit to 16 hours/month volunteering locally
• Social impact: Properties often used for community benefit during guardianship
• Longer placements: Focus on stability where possible
• Family-friendly: One of few companies accepting families with children

Fees and Costs

• Monthly licence fee: £300-£450
• Administration fee: £150-£250
• Deposit: One month's licence fee
• Utilities: Usually separate

Property Types

Dot Dot Dot focuses on:

• Council-owned residential properties
• Housing association voids
• Community centres and halls
• Former care homes
• Properties awaiting regeneration

Application Process

1. Online application with community focus questions
2. Interview (often in person or video)
3. References and background check
4. Discussion of volunteering interests
5. Property matching
6. Licence signing and move-in

Volunteering Requirement

Guardians commit to approximately 16 hours per month of local volunteering. This might include:

• Helping at local food banks
• Youth mentoring
• Community garden projects
• Befriending elderly neighbours
• Local charity support

Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Longer notice periods than competitors
• Family-friendly options available
• More residential-style properties
• Community-focused ethos
• Often council-owned properties (better maintained)

Disadvantages

• Volunteering commitment required
• Fewer properties than larger companies
• More selective application process
• Geographic coverage more limited