Guides
Plain-words guides for people thinking about becoming a property guardian. They describe England and link to their sources. General information, not legal advice. New to it? Start here, then see the before-you-sign checklist.
How much does it cost to be a property guardian? Prices in 2026, and how they've changed since 2011
What guardians pay in October 2026 for rooms and whole homes, in London and elsewhere, plus deposits, bills and other costs, and how prices, fees and entry rules changed from 2011 to 2026.
Facts checked 27 Oct 2026
Property guardian vs renting: the pros and cons
The honest pros and cons of being a property guardian compared with renting in England: cost, space, notice, rights, inspections, conditions, and who it suits.
Facts checked 27 Oct 2026
Property guardians and the Renters' Rights Act: what changed in 2026 and what didn't
Most of the 2026 renting reforms cover tenants, not guardian licences. What does reach guardians (bigger rent repayment orders, £40,000 fines for illegal eviction) and what stays the same.
Facts checked 27 Oct 2026
Property guardian deposits and fees: what a firm can legally charge
The Tenant Fees Act covers guardian licences: deposits are capped at 5 weeks, holding deposits at 1 week, and admin or fire-pack fees are banned. How to get a deposit back and where to report a banned fee.
Facts checked 27 Oct 2026
Can property guardians get their money back? Rent repayment orders explained
If a shared guardian building needed an HMO licence and didn't have one, guardians can ask a tribunal to order payments back. When you can claim, the strict time limits, what tribunals have ordered and how to apply.
Facts checked 27 Oct 2026
Is a property guardian building an HMO? Why it matters
Shared guardian buildings can be HMOs, and bigger ones need a council licence and extra safety rules. How to tell, how to check the licence, and what to do if it isn't licensed.
Facts checked 27 Oct 2026