Social Value in Action: What Our Guardianship Approach Delivers

Guardianship that goes further

Right now, somewhere in your community, there’s an empty building. It’s costing money, attracting vandals, and offering nothing back. But what if that same building could become a force for good?

If you own a vacant property – whether you’re a council, housing association, developer, or commercial/ private property owner – you already know the challenges. Empty buildings are expensive. They require security, maintenance, insurance, and often full business rates. They can damage your reputation with neighbours and local authorities.

And every day they sit vacant, they’re a missed opportunity.

Security Guards vs. Property Guardians

Traditional property guardianship is transactional. Guardians move in, your building is occupied, problem solved.

Our approach is different. We don’t just fill empty buildings – we bring them back to life. Our guardians not only receive convenient, affordable and flexible accommodation, but are also encouraged to get involved with the local community through our DEX Together volunteer initiative. They care about the area because they live there.

When you partner with us, you not only get comprehensive security and property management services, but you also get genuine social impact that enhances your reputation precisely where you need it. Giving you peace of mind and confidence in our partnership.

DEX Together is our volunteer initiative for our team and interested guardians to improve the communities where they reside. 

What social value actually means for you?

Social value” might sound like a buzzword, but for property owners, it delivers real, tangible benefits.

For you, it means:

  • Knowing you are actively working to improve the area where your properties are based
  • Enhanced reputation with local councils and residents
  • Demonstrable Social value and corporate responsibility credentials
  • A partnership with substance, not just a security contract

For the community, it means:

  • Affordable housing for key workers and young professionals
  • Volunteers improving local spaces through gardening projects and community events
  • Work experience opportunities for local residents
  • Reduced anti-social behaviour around your property
  • Sustainability as buildings are used more efficiently
  • Supporting the local economy

Why this matters now?

The landscape has changed. There’s increased scrutiny on corporate responsibility and community value. 

Being proactive positions you as part of the solution rather than part of the problem. It future-proofs your relationships with the authorities and communities where you operate. And it gives you something genuinely positive to talk about.

Whether you’re a council balancing budgets whilst serving residents, a housing association committed to social purpose, or a developer building your reputation for future projects, the companies and organisations that lead with community impact will be the ones that thrive.

How our partnership works?

We secure your property with carefully vetted, guardians who undergo a range of verification checks.
Guardians live in the property, help to maintain it and report any issues to us (maintenance tasks).
Our team and interested guardians volunteer locally on projects that make a real difference.
Get updates on your property's condition, plus the reputational benefits of measurable community impact.

what you gain

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and DEX Property Management Limited for your professionalism in dealing with this property."
London Based Housing Trust
Service Improvement and Agency Manager

Ready to make your property count?

You have an empty property. We have a solution that goes beyond basic security.

We’re on a mission to bring empty properties back into use and build stronger, more vibrant communities. Our team creates affordable living spaces where people can thrive whilst safeguarding your property investment.

Let’s talk about how we can protect your asset whilst building something meaningful in your community.

Whether you own a former care home, an empty office block, a closed school, or any other vacant property, we’d love to discuss how a partnership with purpose could work for you.

Contact us for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. Discover how much you could save (and profit) today.

EMPTY PROPERTY SECURITY COSTS: DEX CASE STUDY

DEX was approached by a South London office building owner seeking to secure their vacant property that was awaiting planning after it was illegally occupied by squatters. The presence of DEX on-site Guardians ensured the property was protected and maintained, saving them thousands while also generating income from the Guardians' license fees.