At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safe and quality housing for residents while tackling issues like overcrowding and illegal evictions.
- Company: Join Exeter City Council's dynamic Private Sector Housing Team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to community welfare and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community by improving living conditions for all.
- Qualifications: Qualified Environmental Health Officer with experience in housing enforcement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Using discretionary and statutory powers, to work with all sectors of the community and with internal and external partners, to maintain and improve the quality and safety of residential properties, including residential mobile home sites and HMO licensing, for those people who live in, work in or visit the City. To assist the Principal Environmental Health Officer in providing a regulatory service and carrying out the Council's statutory duties.
About the team
A subsection of the Early Intervention and Prevention Unit, the Private Sector Housing Team consists of a Principal EHO, an EHO, 2 Environmental Health Technicians, 2 officers working on grants and a Private Sector Housing Officer. The PSH Team administers and inspects 1500 licensed HMOs, the largest number of any authority in Devon, many of which are student properties. The Team inspects single‑family dwellings and assesses them under the HHSRS and takes action where necessary, including prosecutions and fines, and is also involved in combatting illegal evictions, overcrowding, and general poor conditions. The Team aims to organise a landlord education event twice a year, and in the past has taken place in tenant education events.
Responsibilities and qualifications
- You will be a qualified Environmental Health Officer, ideally with some experience in private sector housing enforcement.
- You will be able to take on a varied caseload and use the appropriate legislation (most often the Housing Act 2004) to make informed decisions regarding when and what level of enforcement to take.
- You will have knowledge of the implications, breaches and offences under the Renters Rights Act 2025.
- You will also deal with HMO licensing and inspection, and the associated follow‑up work.
- The ideal candidate would be able to take on evidence gathering, bundle preparation, and court/tribunal appearances.
- You will be the sort of person happy to give advice to landlords, tenants, and third‑party stakeholders; communication skills will be one of your strongest suites.
- You should be able to work comfortably within a team and assist other team members as necessary, particularly filling in when the Principal EHO is absent.
- You will be familiar with the issue by local authorities of various grants to improve premises; Disabled Facilities, Healthy Homes, etc.
- You will be happy to carry out lone inspections in the Exeter local government area, subject to dynamic risk assessment.
EEO statement
At Exeter City Council we are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. To support this commitment we will strive to implement reasonable adjustments to support any members of our communities who face barriers in recruitment processes, irrespective of the reason. We are also proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
Environmental Health Officer in Exeter employer: Exeter City Council
Exeter City Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that reflects the vibrant community we serve. As part of the Private Sector Housing Team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the quality and safety of residential properties in Exeter, while benefiting from a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and collaboration. With access to ongoing training and development, as well as the chance to engage with various stakeholders, this role offers a rewarding career path in public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Environmental Health Officer in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Environmental Health Officers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you insider tips about the role and even refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Housing Act 2004 and the Renters Rights Act 2025. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios related to HMO licensing and inspections.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During interviews, demonstrate how you would advise landlords and tenants effectively. Use examples from your past experiences to highlight your ability to handle tough conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Environmental Health Officer in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of an Environmental Health Officer. Brush up on relevant legislation like the Housing Act 2004 and the Renters Rights Act 2025. This will help you tailor your application to show we’re looking for someone who knows their way around these topics.
Show Off Your Skills:Highlight your communication skills and experience in private sector housing enforcement. We want to see how you can advise landlords and tenants effectively, so share examples of when you've done this in the past. It’s all about showing us you can handle a varied caseload!
Team Player Vibes:We love a good team player! Mention any experiences where you’ve worked collaboratively with others, especially in a regulatory or enforcement context. Let us know how you can step in and support the team when needed, especially in the absence of the Principal EHO.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Exeter City Council. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Exeter City Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Housing Act 2004 and the Renters Rights Act 2025. Be prepared to discuss how these laws impact your role as an Environmental Health Officer, especially in relation to HMO licensing and enforcement actions.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since communication is key in this role, think of examples where you've effectively advised landlords or tenants. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as you'll need to demonstrate your ability to engage with various stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Case Scenarios
Anticipate questions about handling specific cases, such as illegal evictions or overcrowding. Prepare a few scenarios from your past experience where you successfully navigated similar challenges, highlighting your decision-making process.
✨Team Player Mindset
Emphasise your ability to work within a team, especially in supporting colleagues when needed. Think of instances where you've collaborated effectively, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the Private Sector Housing Team's goals.
