Housing Enforcement Officer (BF6001)

Housing Enforcement Officer

Private Sector Housing – Housing & Communities Directorate

Role purpose

The Housing Enforcement Officer is responsible for improving housing standards across the private rented sector in West Northamptonshire.

The role involves investigating poor housing conditions, inspecting properties, enforcing housing legislation and working with landlords, tenants and partner organisations to ensure homes are safe, suitable and properly managed.

A key part of the role is tackling rogue and irresponsible landlords, unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), overcrowding, serious disrepair, harassment and unlawful eviction.

Key responsibilities

• Inspect private rented properties and carry out Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) assessments.
• Investigate complaints about serious disrepair, poor housing conditions and housing-related nuisance.
• Identify hazards and decide what action is needed to make properties safe and compliant.
• Work with landlords and letting agents to improve housing conditions and comply with legal requirements.
• Manage and enforce HMO licensing, including Mandatory and Additional Licensing.
• Ensure licensed HMOs meet required safety, management and amenity standards.
• Prepare schedules of works and serve appropriate legal notices.
• Use the full range of enforcement powers available, including civil penalties and rent repayment orders where appropriate.
• Prepare enforcement cases for prosecution and give evidence at the Magistrates’ Court or First-tier Tribunal when required.
• Carry out interviews under caution, execute warrants and undertake works in default where necessary.
• Work closely with other Council services and external organisations, including Planning, Housing Options, Revenues and Benefits, Trading Standards, Police, Fire and Rescue and Immigration services.
• Use intelligence and risk-based approaches to identify properties and landlords requiring intervention.
• Help tackle overcrowding, unlicensed HMOs, unlawful eviction and harassment.
• Keep up to date with changes in housing legislation, enforcement practices and relevant guidance.
• Contribute to improving the Council’s housing enforcement policies, procedures and ways of working.
• Maintain accurate records and use Council IT systems, including Office 365 and M3.
• Work professionally, fairly and in accordance with equality, diversity, health and safety and safeguarding requirements.

Qualifications and other requirements

• Relevant degree/qualification as a Housing Enforcement Officer or significant relevant private sector housing enforcement experience.
• HHSRS competency/certification is desirable.
• Full driving licence and access to transport for work purposes.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and the needs of different service users.
• Willingness to maintain professional knowledge and undertake relevant training.