EHO/Housing Standards Officer in St. Albans

• Investigate housing condition complaints in the private rented sector, carrying out inspections under theHousing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
• Enforce housing legislation including theHousing Act 2004, preparing and serving notices, prohibition orders, and taking legal action where necessary.
• Assess and processDisabled Facilities Grant (DFG)applications, including carrying out preliminary inspections, liaising with Occupational Therapists, and overseeing the delivery of necessary adaptations.
• Support the delivery of the councilsEmpty Homes strategy, including identifying long-term vacant properties, engaging with owners, and using enforcement powers to bring them back into use where appropriate.
• Inspect and regulateHouses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), ensuring compliance with licensing conditions and relevant legislation.
• Provide professional advice and support to landlords, tenants, and members of the public on housing conditions and improvement options.
• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g. Legal, Social Care, Housing Options) and external agencies (e.g. Fire Service, Police) to manage complex or vulnerable housing cases.
• Represent the council in legal proceedings, tribunals, and multi-agency casework as needed.
• Keep accurate and timely records of inspections, enforcement actions, grant applications, and casework.

Essential Requirements:

• Degree or Diploma in Environmental Health or related housing qualification.
• Proven experience in a local authority setting dealing with private sector housing enforcement, HMOs, and DFGs.
• HHSRS trained and demonstrably competent.
• Good understanding of theHousing Act 2004, DFG process, HMO licensing, and enforcement powers.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload independently with strong organisational and case management skills.
• Knowledge of Disabled Facilities Grant legislation, processes, and funding frameworks.
• Membership of theChartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH)or similar body.