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The ethical alternative to property guardians

The ethical alternative to property guardians

Our short life co-ops have over 40 years experience managing empty homes. Whether hard-to-let properties or regeneration schemes we turn empty homes into meanwhile housing for our members.

Why work with us instead of property guardians?

Did you know that property guardian companies (PGC) are completely unregulated? Known to attract rogue landlords, PGC’s have been found liable in numerous court actions for; health & safety breaches including hazards (HHRS) and fire safety (FRA). Unscrupulous companies are also notorious for withholding deposits (RRO), profiting from ‘rack rent’ by dangerous overcrowding and extortionate fee increases,

Learn about the benefits of working with a short life housing co-op

Your problem – Our solution

Empty homes have become a focus of complaints and frustration for communities, as well as a catalyst for crime and degradation that generates bad press and hostility around regeneration schemes. These empty properties can however be a significant untapped resource for social housing providers, providing a revenue

Interested in how we can help relieve the burden of empty homes ?

Contact

We receive details of your property (min 6 months lifespan).

Assess

We check the property meets Decent Home Standards. Where necessary works are raised.

Allocate

We arrange a viewing for Members. EICR, EPC & Gas safety certs, and asbestos report requested.

Exchange

License agreement & certs are exchanged. Member issued  a sub-licence agreement.

Remove risk and generate revenue

Short life co-ops can generate income from your dormant assets. Our members occupy your empty properties for which you receive a weekly licence fee. Members pay council tax and keep homes protected and maintained, giving you peace of mind and significant savings on overheads.

 

Mitigate the costs of: Eliminate risk of:
Hard security Arson
Insurance premiums Theft
Council tax premium Squatters
Standing charges Vandalism
Repossession claims Anti-social behaviour

Frequently asked questions

Who are your Members?2024-05-14T10:20:31+00:00

Our Members are typically single, low-income professionals without priority need or access to the social housing register

Are members tenants in law?2024-05-14T10:21:01+00:00

Fully mutual housing co-ops are exempt from issuing assured shorthold tenancies. 

All co-op Members enter into a periodic contractual tenancy subject to terms and conditions of membership. 

A contractual tenancy can be terminated with 1 months notice.

Who pays for the council tax on residential property?2024-05-14T10:21:38+00:00

Members pay council tax directly to the local authority. Members are liable for all bills and any costs incurred by occupation.

How can our contractors gain access to the property?2024-05-14T10:22:00+00:00

Given 24 hrs notice our Members will provide access for statutory inspections such as gas and boiler checks, electrical safety, asbestos and fire risk assessments.

What is the process for getting the property back?2024-05-14T10:22:22+00:00

Vacant possession is achieved within 1 month of receiving Notice To Quit. 

We always ensure to return property clean and free from personal possessions.

Who is responsible for maintenance work on the property?2024-05-14T10:22:52+00:00

Our Members maintain the interior of the property and report any issues with standard installations – gas, water & electricity. 

The liaison officers will notify you in the event of structural damage or if major works are needed.

How many Members will occupy the property?2024-05-14T10:23:13+00:00

Each co-op has an allocation policy that determines how many Members will occupy the space.  

We will never overcrowd a property for profit, or under allocate. 

Our aim is to always make best use of the resources available

How do you manage Members?2024-05-14T10:23:38+00:00

Members participate in regular co-op meetings, and are contractually bound to adhere to coop rules & policies. 

Our co-ops employ preventative measures to avoid breaches including inductions & training. 

Co-ops have governance structures in place with a team of officers to manage tenants & properties.

How long does it take to fill a vacant property?2024-05-14T10:24:04+00:00

The process takes approximately 14 days from viewing to occupation. 

Once the license agreement has been signed responsibility for the property is transferred to the co-op.  

Demand for short life properties is high. 

Our co-ops are oversubscribed with unhoused Members ready to occupy your vacant properties at short notice.

Do you have a question that is still unanswered? Email us at hello@londoncoops.org to speak to a team member.

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