Londoners Opt for Living in Abandoned Properties to Escape Soaring Rents. In central London, a bed sits under a stained-glass window, depicting the image of Jesus Christ in hues of copper and blue. This is not the typical living arrangement; the bed is situated in a deserted cathedral, where three individuals have lived over the last two years, each paying a lower monthly fee to reside in the priest’s quarters.
The cathedral is managed by Live-in Guardians, a company that places people in unused buildings, including schools, libraries, and even pubs, across Britain. These so-called property guardians pay a much lower “license fee” than the standard rent for similar properties.
As rent prices continue to climb, more people, especially in their thirties and forties, are turning to guardianships, with applications surging. Arthur Duke, founder of Live-in Guardians, attributes the rise to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which has pushed people to seek affordable living options.
Guardianships, while cheaper, come with fewer legal protections than regular rentals. Residents sometimes face uncomfortable living conditions, such as non-potable water and structural issues. Still, the appeal is undeniable for many seeking a more affordable way to live in cities like London, where rent prices are skyrocketing.
Luke Williams, a 45-year-old project manager, has lived as a guardian for six years and saved thousands on rent. He currently resides in a former office block in east London, finding the quirky and spacious living conditions a financial and lifestyle benefit
