TOWER GUARDIANS LTD
GUARDIAN HANDBOOK 101
WWW.TOWERGUARDIANS.COM
PROPERTY GUARDIANS: YOUR CONCISE GUIDE
Tower Guardians connects responsible working professionals, with would-be vacant properties. Guardians live in these spaces under a non-exclusive licence agreement, providing security and preventing issues like squatting and dilapidation.
Think of it like this: you're essentially an on-site security system, living in a unique space at a discounted rate. Your presence deters unwanted activity and keeps the property well-maintained, benefiting both you and the owner. Here's the gist:
• You: Responsible and employed professional
• Your assigned unit: A would-be vacant property with some shared living spaces
• Your agreement: Non-exclusive licence, not a traditional tenancy
• Your role: Act as an early warning system for any suspicious activity or issues
• Benefits for you: Affordable living in some cool and unusual spaces
• Benefits for owner: Secure property, reduced risk of squatting, ASB or damage
Remember: This is just a quick overview and troubleshooting guide to all things ‘Guardian’. For specific details surrounding the terms of your occupation, check out your individual Licence to Occupy agreement. And if you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to contact us.
External info by GOV.UK: Property guardians: a fact sheet for current and potential property guardians
JOINING TOWER GUARDIANS: 3 STEPS 🍏
1. Apply online:
Head to the "Tower Guardians" section of our website and complete the application form.
2. Get the paperwork sorted:
We’ll look over your suitability and respond asking for the following documents in full. Please send all together by email attachment, with your full name in the subject line:
• Passport or drivers, a clear hi-res photo needed
• Recent Bank statement, in PDF format showing your current address
• Full Credit report, in PDF format showing your score and current address (no screenshots)
• Landlord reference, to be emailed to us
• Employment reference, to be emailed to us, if self-employed, a letter declaring this and your SA100
3. We’ll call you:
We'll contact you if your application moves forward and if we have a suitable option to offer. We’ll arrange a viewing to meet face to face, and allow you the chance to consider the option.
🧨 Bonus tip: We operate first come first served – so applications with references already collected will to move faster.
SEAL THE DEAL: LICENCE AGREEMENT & PAYMENT
1. Review and sign:
• We'll email you a copy of your "Licence to Occupy" agreement
• Review the details and the "Terms and Conditions" carefully
• Once you’re happy with it all, please e-sign the document and send it back via email. Note this is a legal document and will form the bases of your occupancy while a Tower Guardian.
2. Make Payment:
Initial Move-In payment & your standing order
Please transfer the total agreed amount, which includes your Guardian Guarantee (Deposit), the first month’s license fee and your registration fee to the following account:
Account Name: Tower Guardians Ltd.
Sort Code: 30-64-72
Account Number: 26321068
Reference: Use your First and Last Name (e.g. John Smith)
Ensure to setup a standing order for the 1’st day of each month for your licence fee payment.
If you are unable to do so, you will be required to have a Direct Debit setup (this will be +£10 per month)
Your licence fees will then be collected by Direct Debit on the 1st of each month by GoCardless.
Please ensure this is completed prior to your move-in date.
STAYING IN THE LOOP: YOUR GUARDIAN COMMUNICATION HUB
• Regular spot inspections: We’ll make regular unscheduled unit inspections, this is to ensure that we have access to all units at all time and will expect to gain access if you are in.
• Regular updates: From viewing schedules and contractor access to important communal issues and inspection reports, we'll keep you informed about everything relevant to your living space.
• Two-way communication: We rely on your feedback. Please respond to all access requests when possible and confirm the completion of any work/repairs. WhatsApp works great for quick comms and we’ll send out emails and calendar invites for anything else. Keep your phone number and email up-to-date with us so we may reach you.
• Repairs: Please log these via our “Report a Repair” section of our website.
PAYMENTS & KEEPING YOUR GUARDIAN JOURNEY SMOOTH
• Licence fees are due in full and in advance on the 1st of every month via a standing order.
• Make sure your payments are clearly referenced with your full name for easy tracking.
• If you anticipate any payment delays, please let us know immediately.
• Timely payments are crucial to maintaining your licence agreement in good standing.
SPREAD THE WORD, EARN A REWARD
• Recommend a friend or colleague to become a Tower Guardian and if they successfully move in for a period of 3 months, you'll get a £75 credit.
YOUR GUARDIAN GUIDE: WHATS EXPECTED OF YOU?
Being a property guardian comes with important responsibilities, but they're all about creating a safe and enjoyable living environment for everyone. Here's a quick rundown of what's expected:
Be responsible:
• Record and register for utilities and council tax account holder in the first week.
• Use common sense and initiative to tackle situations, a positive attitude goes a long way!
• Move in to your designated space once you have the keys.
Respect to others and the property:
• Maintain cleanliness throughout your unit, common areas and grounds.
• Follow safety regulations and avoid noise pollution.
• No smoking or open flames allowed – no scented candles (these will be removed and notice served).
• Check you have a working fire alarm, contact us if not.
Be vigilant or your surroundings:
• Immediately report any suspected trespassing or suspicious activity.
• Tell us about any existing or new damage, both inside and outside the property.
• Report any illegal activity you witness, both to ourselves and the police.
Mind your interactions:
• Having the occasional accompanied guest is fine, having parties is not.
• Pets are not permitted without written consent.
• Don't discuss or make any agreements with 3rd parties about the property.
• Subletting is strictly not allowed and will result in your Licence Agreement being terminated.
Respect the property itself:
• Do not modify, paint or alter the space without consent.
• Keep your belongings within your assigned space and avoid cluttering common areas.
• Only use the spaces allocated to you.
• Don't change or add any locks without our explicit permission.
Please stay in touch and helpful with inspections:
• Cooperate with authorised visits from owners and contractors.
• Please always ensure your units are kept in a “ready to view” state, clean and tidy.
MOVING IN MADE EASY: SETTLING INTO YOUR GUARDIAN SPACE
Occupying Your Space:
• You must move in within a few days of signing your agreement to ensure the property is occupied. If you can't manage everything at once, bring some belongings first to establish your presence.
Utilities and Council Tax:
• Take meter readings and register as the account holder for utilities and council tax. Don't worry if another guardian has already done this; you'll just need to pay your share of the bills. Failure to do this will affect your guardian guarantee being returned.
Staying Connected:
• Feel free to install a phone line and internet, but remember you'll be responsible for cancelling them when you leave. Since your stay isn't guaranteed for a specific timeframe, consider mobile options like a hotspot router for extra flexibility.
White Goods:
• We do not provide any white goods. What you bring in must be installed by a certified professional and PAT tested for safety. Installing them in communal spaces is at your own risk, so make sure to label them clearly with your name.
Be Our Eyes and Ears:
• Use these first days to familiarise yourself with the property and report any issues you find. We appreciate your vigilance in keeping things safe and well-maintained!
• This includes regular litter picking and cleaning and tiding of the wider building and grounds.
KEY POINTS FOR KEY SAFETY: KEEPING YOUR SPACE SECURE
Receiving your keys:
• You'll receive your keys once you've signed your agreement and made your initial payment.
• Label them with your phone number (never the property address) to increase the chances of them being returned if lost.
Ensuring the security of your unit:
• If you want to install additional locks, contact us first for approval.
• We'll need a copy of any new keys to ensure we have unrestricted access for maintenance and safety purposes.
• Remember: Unauthorised locks might lead to forced entry and fines for damages.
Lost Keys:
• Report the loss of your keys ASAP so we can arrange replacements and secure the property.
• Keep a spare key in a safe place, like with a trusted family member or at work.
• There may be a charge for any call outs or lock changes — you may need to arrange this yourself.
WRAPPING UP YOUR GUARDIAN JOURNEY: UNDERSTANDING AGREEMENT ENDINGS
There are two ways your Licence Agreement with Tower Guardians will come to an end:
1. We will serve a “Notice to Determine”:
• We’ll issue you a Notice to Determine giving your at least 28 days to vacate. The owner will have notified us that they wish to terminate their security agreement with us and as such you will be required to vacate.
• We reserve the right to serve Notice to Determine, ending your agreement, if you breach any of the terms and conditions you signed up to.
2. You will choose to leave before the full term:
• Should you choose to move out at any stage, you will need to give us at least 1 months' written notice via email. Your notice end date must expire on the last day of the calendar month.
• Remember, you're responsible for staying in the property until the final day of your notice period and paying the utilities and council tax until then.
MOVING OUT: YOUR DEPARTURE GUIDE
Prepare Your Space:
• Be out by 10am on your last day – take final utility readings. No extensions.
• Remove all of your personal belongings and rubbish.
• Clean and vacuum your unit, corridors, kitchen and bathroom.
• Contact the council for proper disposal of bulky items. Removal for anything left behind will be charged to you.
Key Return:
• On your final day, leave keys on your kitchen counter & room keys in the right door or if possible double-lock and post back through the post-box for collection. Confirm with PM.
Closing Up council tax and utility accounts:
• Take pictures of your utility readings.
• Contact providers and close accounts: Gas, electric, water, council tax, phone and internet.
Ready to stay a guardian?
• Let us know if you want to continue on as a guardian with us - while we can't guarantee another property, we'll prioritise finding you a suitable new space.
YOUR GUARDIAN GUARANTEE
• Email a named statement of closed utility bills and council tax – showing all paid
• Confirm the bank account details: Account name, Number and Sort Code
• Once we receive confirmation, along with proof and bank details, we'll return the guardian guarantee
• Complete this form for the return: https://www.towerguardians.com/departure
FAREWELL AND BEST WISHES
• Spread the joy: If you enjoyed your experience, consider leaving a positive review on our Facebook and Google pages. It helps us welcome new guardians and continue providing affordable living opportunities to more people.
From all of us at Tower Guardians, good luck and best wishes!
TOWER GUARDIANS: BUILDING PROCEDURES GUIDE
Keep it tidy:
• Waste: Check your local council website for refuse collection information as to collection schedule. Report missed collections to council. Bins are your responsibility.
• Recycling: Do your part! Learn about your council's recycling options and follow guidelines. Large items like white goods or furniture require paid removal arrangements.
• Fly tipping and litter: Report this to the council to remove, any litter you see should be collected on an ongoing basis to keep up the general condition of the grounds.
Communication and Respect:
• Contacting Owners: Do not. Licence Agreement stipulates no direct contact with the owners or landlords is allowed. Any concerns should be raised with us directly. Direct contact with the owners or landlords may lead to termination and affect the entire building.
• Third-Party Contacts: Do not make agreements with contractors, estate agents, etc. If they contact you, please refer them to Tower Guardians.
• Visitors: Let us know if any visitors are in the building to the building. No children are allowed.
Taking care of your assigned space:
• Decorating: With permission, you may paint with neutral colours, but ensure everything is returned to its original state. Unauthorised changes will incur repair costs.
• Outside Spaces: Keep communal areas clean and tidy. Report fly-tipping to the council and Tower Guardians. Secure your bike to avoid damage.
Maintenance and Bills:
• Leaks and Faults: Notify us about any leaks, damage or faults in the property.
• Utilities and Council Tax: You are responsible for managing the utilities and council tax for your assigned unit. Ensure you take meter readings on day one of moving in and keep these records.
• Head Guardians: In larger properties, a head guardian may act as a liaison, helping with access and reporting back on occasion, you may approach them to report internal issues.
Living Harmoniously:
• Parties: Very much not allowed. Your primary role is security and building care.
• Illegal Substances: Possession of illegal substances is a criminal offense and will lead to termination of your licence agreement and the authorities will be notified.
• Pets and Dependents: Pets are not allowed unless written permission is granted. Children (anyone under the age of 18) may not stay in the property.
• Guests: Guests must be accompanied by you at all times. Unauthorised guests will be considered intruders.
Additional Points:
• Keep your unit clean and clear at all times - there will be occassional site visits by owners or third parties. We aim to notify you 24 hours prior.
• If you encounter squatters, ex-residents accessing or suspicious activity call 999 and then us.
• There is public liability insurance for accidental property damage. This excludes personal belongings or intentional damage.
CONTACT
In case of an emergency please contact the emergency services on 999 and then let us know by phone or email.
Email: hello@towerguardians.com
WhatsApp: 02080899688 (London)
WhatsApp: 07444566027 (South Bucks)
Monday to Friday: 09:30 – 17:00
HEALTH, SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES: A GUIDE
Emergency Response:
• Stay Calm & Assess: Ensure your safety and check exit routes
• Alert Others (if safe): Advise and assist others if possible
• Evacuate: Leave the building following designated exits
• Contact Emergency Services: Call 999 and explain the situation
Fire Alarm:
• Activate Alarm: Use the nearest fire alarm call point
• Fight Fire (if safe): Use the nearest extinguisher/fire blanket for appropriate types of fires (Red for non-electric, Black for electric, Blanket for small fires)
• Evacuate: Use nearest exit route, close windows and doors (if safe)
• Call Fire Brigade: Dial 999 and provide details
• Stay Outside: Don't use lifts, collect belongings or re-enter until authorised
Fire Prevention:
• Know your escape routes and test the smoke detectors and keep extinguishers accessible
• Keep fire doors closed, escape routes clear and phones near sleeping areas
• Unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment – like hairdryers.
• Do not overload plugs, use faulty appliances or leave them unattended
CONTACTING EMERGENCY SERVICES
POLICE / AMBULANCE 999
FIRE LONDON FIRE BRIGADE 999
GAS NATIONAL GRID 0800 111 999
FLOODING THAMES WATER 01793 366 011
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Gas Leak:
• Open windows and evacuate. Get everyone out safely
• Don't touch anything electrical! No phones, no lights, no switches
• No flames or sparks! No smoking, lighters, matches
• Call 999 and the National Grid on 0800 111 999 immediately
Flood:
• Turn off the water supply, locate the stopcock and shut it off.
• Contact Thames Water, call them directly on 01793 366 011 to report the issue.
Electrical Fault:
• Don't DIY with electrics! Please leave electrical problems to professionals
• Switch off the mains. Locate the fuse box and turn off power
• Remove anything causing the fault. Unplug any appliances involved
• Don't restore power until it's safe!
First Aid:
• Only intervene if trained. Assess the situation calmly and safely.
• Comfort the injured and call for help. Dial 999 for medical emergencies.
Security Breach:
• Stay calm and prioritise your safety. Back away from any threat.
• Don't confront or engage. Keep yourself out of harm's way.
• Call emergency services immediately. Dial 999 for personal attack, vandalism, burglary or aggressive situations
USEFUL SITES
Gumtree
Free Cycle
B&Q DIY
MET Police Report crimes and advice
Ministry of Housing Guidance for guardians about being a guardian