Key Achievements
Security
Guardians maintained and improved the flats they occupied, preventing deterioration.
Managed Operations
Deployed vetted Property Guardians to occupy and safeguard empty flats, ensuring continuous oversight.
Community Reassurance
Improved remaining residents’ sense of safety and wellbeing during the transition period.
Improved Property Condition
Guardians maintained and improved the flats they occupied, preventing deterioration.
The Property
The Market Estate, located in North London, was a typical 1960s council estate formerly owned by Islington Council. Known for its outdated design and social issues, the estate had been earmarked for demolition as part of a wider regeneration initiative.
Following its transfer to Southern Housing Group, the property entered a redevelopment phase aimed at transforming the area and improving community wellbeing
The Challenges
- Reputation and Security Risks – The estate had gained a longstandingreputation as a hotspot for drug use andhomelessness.
- Vacant Flats and Squatting – As tenants were decanted and relocated, many flats were left empty, boarded up, or broken into by squatters.
- Community Concerns – Remaining residents felt unsafe and uncertain during the transition period leading up to demolition.
- Property Management Difficulties – Securing the estate while maintaining safety and minimising costs posed a significant challenge for Southern Housing Group.
Our Solutions
Ad Hoc implemented the Property Guardian scheme to protect the estate:
- Took over management of the estate and applied the Property Guardian model as a cost-effective solution.
- Deployed vetted Guardians to occupy and safeguard vacant flats.Prevented unauthorised access and squatting, reducing security incidents.
- Provided a reassuring presence for remaining tenants, improving their sense of safety.
- Supported Southern Housing Group through a smooth decant and redevelopment transition.
”The Market Estate has brought many challenges during the decant phase in terms of how to prevent empty flats becoming the target of anti-social behaviour. However Ad Hoc provided the solution to this problem by installing live-in Guardians at no additional cost
Southern Housing Group
Why Ad Hoc?
We are the trusted name in protecting vacant properties across the UK and Europe.
With over 35 years of experience, we are on a mission to bring empty buildings back into use and communities back to life.
Tailored Solutions
Looking for the right solution for your vacant property? We provide options such as Residential Guardianship, Workspace Occupation, Charity Occupation and Property Security to keep your building protected and in use.
Fill out the form for a free, no-obligation conversation. We’ll be in touch to explore the best approach for your property.
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