London has the most property guardian opportunities in the UK, offering a way to live affordably in one of the world's most expensive cities. Here's what you need to know about being a guardian in the capital.
London Guardian Costs
| Area | Guardian Fee | Typical Rent | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central London (Zones 1-2) | £500-£650 | £1,400-£2,000 | 55-65% |
| Inner London (Zones 2-3) | £450-£550 | £1,100-£1,500 | 50-60% |
| Outer London (Zones 4-6) | £350-£450 | £800-£1,200 | 45-55% |
Popular Areas for Guardians
Guardian properties are found across London, with concentrations in:
- East London: Stratford, Hackney, Tower Hamlets - regeneration areas
- South London: Lewisham, Croydon, Greenwich - council properties
- West London: Ealing, Hammersmith - commercial buildings
- North London: Tottenham, Enfield - mixed properties
Types of Properties
London guardian properties include:
- Former office blocks
- Closed NHS buildings and clinics
- Council buildings awaiting redevelopment
- Schools and colleges
- Police and fire stations
- Commercial premises above shops
- Residential properties in regeneration zones
Companies Operating in London
All major guardian companies have London properties:
- Camelot - largest selection
- Dot Dot Dot - council partnerships
- Ad Hoc Property - London specialist
- Global Guardians - varied buildings
- DEX Property Management
- Live-in Guardians
Tips for London Guardians
- Apply early: Competition is high for good properties
- Be flexible on zone: Outer London offers better value
- Check transport: Some properties are in poorly connected areas
- Consider sharing: Many London properties house multiple guardians
- Budget for travel: Factor in transport costs for outlying areas
London-Specific Considerations
- Council tax: London rates are high - check if exempt
- Competition: Good properties go quickly
- Commercial areas: Many properties in business districts - quiet at weekends
- Regeneration: Properties often linked to development - shorter stays