When a beloved Sussex primary school closed in August 2020, local authorities faced the challenge of securing the empty building against squatters and anti-social behaviour without high security costs. Five years later, the property remains secure and continues to generate revenue, thanks to an innovative guardianship solution.
Despite a passionate community campaign to save it, the former primary school was forced to close in August 2020. Declining pupil numbers and an oversupply of school places in the area had left the school running a financial deficit that even a reduced funding plan couldn’t address.
As with many closed schools, the building’s fate was uncertain. Planning and development processes would take years, leaving the property vulnerable and at risk during the interim period.
The local authority faced several pressing security concerns:
After exploring conventional security solutions, the authority chose property guardianship—a flexible, zero-cost alternative that would provide round-the-clock protection through licensed guardians living on-site.
Like many school buildings, the property was ideally suited for guardian occupation. Large classrooms, existing toilet facilities, and kitchen areas provided a strong foundation for residential conversion.
DEX’s team transformed the space to meet residential standards by installing additional pop-up shower facilities, ensuring full compliance with health and safety requirements, and obtaining all necessary certifications for House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) regulations.
Critically, all preparation work was completed at zero cost to the client.
The numbers:
Each guardian underwent DEX’s robust vetting process before selection. Once in situ, they provided continuous security, reporting any concerns directly to DEX Property Management through a dedicated 24-hour alert service. An in-house maintenance team ensured rapid response to any issues and was at zero cost to the owner.
DEX conducted monthly property inspections throughout the guardianship period.
Five years on, the results speak for themselves:
The property has remained continuously protected since 2020, with zero security breaches, squatter attempts, or significant anti-social behaviour incidents.
Financial benefits:
Founded over 15 years ago, DEX Property Management is a leader in managing empty properties, helping councils, housing associations, dioceses, and NHS trusts make use of vacant spaces. We are trusted by more than 50% of the G15 housing associations and 1 in 3 London councils.
DEX goes beyond basic security, focusing on revitalising empty properties and building stronger communities. Our DEX Together initiative, launched in 2024, encourages our team and interested guardians to engage with local causes.
Interested in securing your empty property with guardian protection?
Contact DEX Property Guardianship to discuss how we can help protect your building at zero cost whilst generating value for your community.