At a Glance
- Tasks: Improve housing quality and reduce empty properties in Elmbridge.
- Company: Elmbridge Borough Council, dedicated to enhancing community living standards.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join us to create safer, better homes for everyone in the borough.
- Qualifications: HND/HNC in Environmental Health or equivalent, with relevant housing experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The main function of this role is to improve the housing quality within Elmbridge Borough Council by working proactively and reactively to improve housing standards across all tenures and reduce the number of empty properties in the borough. You will work under the supervision of the senior property standards and empty homes officer to investigate and resolve complaints of poor housing conditions and undertake inspections of caravan sites, taking appropriate enforcement action to ensure compliance with legislation and regulatory requirements. You will also be responsible for the maintenance of the Private Sector Housing team's computerised records systems.
Main Purpose of the Role:
- To improve the quality, safety, and choice of residential accommodation in Elmbridge and meet the Council's responsibilities under the Housing Acts and other legislation.
- To ensure best use of the housing stock by minimising the number of empty properties.
- To provide an excellent service to owners, occupiers, and tenants in all tenures through action by a range of intervention strategies, including enforcement, education, and advice.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
- Carry out proactive and programmed inspections of residential properties.
- Investigate complaints regarding housing disrepair, in line with council policies and procedures, using the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS). Where necessary and appropriate, initiate and prepare recommendations for enforcement action in line with council policies and procedures.
- Inspection, licensing, and enforcement of houses of multiple occupation in line with council policies and procedures under supervision by the Senior Housing Standards Officer.
- Inspection, licensing, and enforcement of mobile home/caravan sites in line with council policies and procedures.
- Lead on the promotion, identifying, and monitoring of empty homes and bringing them back into use.
- Organise awareness of the empty property issues and any initiatives through appropriate promotional materials, publicity, and education, and proactively approach the owners of empty properties, advising them on their options.
- Use the council's powers under the Renters Rights Act to support the provision of well-managed and maintained rented housing within the borough, working collaboratively with tenants, landlords, managing agents, and colleagues across the council.
- Undertake general environmental protection complaint work under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 where relating to statutory nuisances.
- Advise residents, owners, and landlords on matters of disrepair, housing standards, and, in general terms, on the procurement and funding of building works.
- Where statutory notices have been served, monitor compliance and take appropriate action in the event of failure to comply.
- Provide all necessary information and evidence to facilitate legal proceedings and appear as a witness for the Council in legal proceedings, tribunals, and enquiries, as directed.
- Maintain records and reports and provide such statistical information as may be required in relation to the duties attached to the post.
- Represent the council at meetings with internal and external partners.
- Keep up to date with current legislation, regulations, guidance, and technical developments.
Qualifications and Education:
- Good standard of general education with examinations passed in English Language and Mathematics.
- Educated to at least an HND/HNC level or equivalent in Environmental Health.
- Have training in the investigatory powers introduced under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, or be willing to undertake this training as part of the role.
- Experience of working as a Private Sector Housing Officer, Technical Officer in an Environmental Health Residential Team, or working within an organisation dealing with Housing Standards and HMO Licensing related matters.
- Experience of surveying dwellings for defects and disrepair.
- Experience of undertaking responsive and programmed inspections of residential premises.
- Experience of drafting statutory notices and enforcement papers in relation to housing conditions and failure to comply with notices or licensing conditions.
- Experience of identifying empty properties and the range of powers and practices aimed at bringing them back into use.
Property Standards and Empty Homes Officer in Guildford employer: JOB SWITCH LTD
Elmbridge Borough Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to enhancing housing quality and community well-being in the vibrant Elmbridge area. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and a focus on meaningful impact, staff are empowered to make a real difference in residents' lives while enjoying a supportive environment that values innovation and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Property Standards and Empty Homes Officer in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous work related to housing standards and inspections. Bring it along to interviews to demonstrate your expertise and passion for improving housing quality.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family, focusing on common questions related to property standards and enforcement. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that Property Standards and Empty Homes Officer role. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to working with us at Elmbridge Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Property Standards and Empty Homes Officer in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Property Standards and Empty Homes Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to improving housing quality in Elmbridge!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on any roles where you've dealt with housing standards, inspections, or enforcement actions. We love seeing candidates who have hands-on experience in similar areas!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you're a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at JOB SWITCH LTD
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Housing Acts and the Renters' Rights Act. Being able to discuss relevant legislation confidently will show that you understand the legal framework surrounding property standards and empty homes.
✨Showcase Your Inspection Skills
Prepare examples of your experience with property inspections and how you've handled complaints in the past. Highlight any specific cases where you successfully resolved issues or improved housing conditions.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
As this role involves working with various stakeholders, practice articulating how you would communicate effectively with tenants, landlords, and colleagues. Think about how you can convey complex information clearly and concisely.
✨Be Proactive About Empty Homes
Research the current situation regarding empty properties in Elmbridge. Be ready to discuss strategies for bringing these homes back into use and how you would engage with owners to promote awareness and solutions.
