Major Works & Dispute Resolution Officer in Harlow

Harlow is a district of contrasts and an ideal location to both live and work. The town itself is thriving, with excellent shopping and leisure facilities for all ages. We have good road links to the M11 and M25 and excellent rail connections to London and Stansted Airport, just 35 minutes and 20 minutes away from Harlow respectively.

The role

We are looking for a Major Works & Dispute Resolution Officer to join our Home Ownership Team. You will be responsible for carrying out all statutory consultation relating to works on flat blocks, ensuring full compliance and supporting the Council in maximising the recovery of major works charges. A key part of the role is resolving disputes promptly and fairly, in line with Council policies, while delivering a customer‑focused, value‑for‑money housing service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on all statutory consultation processes for major works, ensuring full legal compliance and enabling the Council to recover costs from leaseholders
• Prepare, issue and manage statutory notices, ensuring accuracy, clarity and timely service
• Attend consultation meetings and provide clear guidance to leaseholders on legal requirements, payment options and the scope of proposed works
• Work closely with contractors, contract administrators and internal teams to ensure information is accurate, works are fully recoverable, and leaseholders are kept informed throughout the project
• Visit blocks where required to verify works and support the preparation of Notices of Intention and Notices of Estimates
• Maintain accurate records for all consultation and recharging activity, ensuring smooth project handover and correct calculation of leaseholder accounts
• Calculate and issue major works invoices promptly, providing clear breakdowns and ensuring accuracy in all billing
• Handle disputes and complaints professionally, aiming for early resolution and preparing evidence for County Court or Tribunal proceedings when required
• Attend hearings to give evidence on behalf of the Council when necessary
• Contribute to meeting service targets and maintaining high standards of customer service, safeguarding, and health and safety

The experience you will bring:

• Good knowledge of the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002 in respect of service charge consultation
• Knowledge of the 1985 Housing Act and subsequent amendments
• Good knowledge of the how building contracts are managed and the applications for payments under them
• Understands and can interpret leases
• Experience of cross organisational working to resolve disputes and build good relationships

What you should do next:

If you are interested in finding out more about this role, we would love to hear from you. Please apply via the Working for Essex website. If you have any queries relating to this post please email louise.butler@essex.gov.uk