Private Sector Housing Officer

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out inspections under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and relevant provisions of the Housing Act 2004 and Environmental Protection Act 1990.
• Assess and process applications relating to property licensing, including HMOs, and monitor ongoing compliance with licence conditions.
• Investigate complaints and breaches of housing legislation, taking appropriate enforcement action where required.
• Prepare and serve statutory notices, financial penalties and other enforcement measures, including supporting legal proceedings and attending court or tribunal hearings.
• Assess applications for Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) and minor adaptations, helping residents to live independently within their homes.

Candidate Requirements

• A degree, diploma or equivalent qualification in Environmental Health or a related housing discipline.
• Certification as an HHSRS Practitioner/Assessor.
• Previous experience working within a local authority private sector housing service.
• Strong knowledge of housing legislation, including the Housing Act 2004, PACE, RIPA, and enforcement practices.
• Experience managing HMO licensing, inspections, enforcement cases and complex housing investigations.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build effective working relationships with residents, landlords and stakeholders.