At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect properties, investigate complaints, and enforce housing standards.
- Company: Local Authority in Surrey with a focus on community welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Initial 3-month contract with potential for extension.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in housing standards and community safety.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing standards, environmental health, or housing enforcement.
Park Avenue Recruitment are working with a Local Authority in Surrey that is looking for an experienced Housing Standards Officer / Private Sector Housing Officer to join their team on an initial 3-month interim contract. This opportunity would suit someone with experience in Housing Standards, Private Sector Housing, Environmental Health or Housing Enforcement who is looking for their next interim role in Surrey.
Responsibilities
- Carry out HHSRS inspections across privately rented properties.
- Investigate complaints relating to housing conditions, hazards and disrepair.
- Inspect HMOs and assess compliance with relevant housing legislation and licensing conditions.
- Identify and assess Category 1 and Category 2 hazards.
- Prepare and serve statutory notices, including Improvement Notices and Prohibition Orders.
- Take appropriate enforcement action in relation to Private Sector Housing matters.
- Investigate illegal eviction and harassment cases where required.
- Prepare evidence, statements and case files for prosecution and tribunal proceedings.
- Provide clear advice and guidance to landlords, tenants and other stakeholders.
- Manage a varied Housing Standards / Private Sector Housing caseload from inspection through to resolution.
- Maintain accurate case records and enforcement documentation.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across Housing, Environmental Health and other Council services.
Relevant knowledge and practical experience:
- Housing Act 2004
- Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
- HMO inspections and licensing
- Private Sector Housing enforcement
- Housing standards inspections
- Statutory notices
- Evidence gathering
- Landlord and tenant legislation
For further information and to apply for this role, contact Shaye at Park Avenue Recruitment.
Housing Standards Officer employer: Park Avenue Recruitment
As an employer, Park Avenue Recruitment offers a dynamic work environment that values integrity and collaboration, making it an excellent choice for professionals in the public sector. With a focus on employee growth and development, the company provides opportunities for meaningful contributions to local governance while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. Located in Kent, employees benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises work-life balance and competitive remuneration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Standards Officer
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Standards Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Park Avenue Recruitment
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Park Avenue Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Park Avenue Recruitment that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
