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- Tasks: Manage housing standards, enforce regulations, and improve living conditions for residents.
- Company: Local Authority in Kent dedicated to enhancing community living standards.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and excellent career development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by improving housing conditions.
- Qualifications: Relevant housing qualifications and experience in enforcement and case management.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on professional growth and wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 48657 - 54727 £ per year.
An exciting senior opportunity has arisen within a Local Authority Housing Standards and Assistance Team in Kent. As a Principal Housing Standards Officer, you will manage a complex caseload and lead enforcement action to address poor housing conditions, disrepair, and energy efficiency issues across the borough. You will use the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and relevant legislative powers to drive improvements in the private rented sector, including House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing and enforcement. In addition, you will oversee the operational delivery of Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) and housing adaptations, ensuring the process is managed end-to-end and effectively supports residents’ needs. This is a hands-on role offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to residents’ lives, particularly those requiring adaptations to live safely and independently.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a varied caseload relating to housing disrepair, hazards, and energy efficiency
- Undertake enforcement action using the HHSRS and relevant legislation
- Deliver HMO licensing and enforcement activities
- Lead and oversee the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) and housing adaptations programme
- Carry out site visits and inspections as required
- Support service improvement and wider team objectives
- Guide and support junior officers in operational tasks and enforcement procedures
Essential Qualifications / Academic Requirements
Candidates must hold one of the following:
- Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) Accredited Level 4 Housing Regulatory Compliance
- CIEH Accredited Level 5 Diploma in Housing and Health
- CIEH Accredited Degree or Master’s in Environmental Health (ideal)
Essential Technical Experience
Candidates must demonstrate proven, practical experience in:
- Private sector housing standards and enforcement
- HHSRS inspections and enforcement actions
- Managing complex enforcement cases under the Housing Act 2004
- Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) and housing adaptations, including liaison with occupational therapists (OTs), understanding budgets, and managing the end-to-end process
- Operating at a senior/lead level with the ability to guide and support officers
About You
The ideal candidate will be an experienced housing professional with strong technical knowledge and leadership capability, excellent communication and organisational skills, and a commitment to delivering high standards of service to residents.
Benefits
- Salary: £48,657 – £54,727 per annum
- Progressive and supportive working environment
- 34-hour working week with hybrid flexibility
- Generous annual leave, with additional leave for Christmas/New Year and after 5 years’ service
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with life cover
- Life assurance, free parking, season ticket loan, and cycle-to-work scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing initiatives, and discount schemes
- Professional fee payment where applicable
- Excellent learning and career development opportunities
Location: Kent (NB - this role is Hybrid – minimum 2 days per week office/field-based)
Principal Housing Standards Officer employer: Recruitment Boutique Ltd
Contact Detail:
Recruitment Boutique Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Housing Standards Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the housing sector, attend local events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in housing standards and legislation. Show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference in residents' lives. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and really keen on joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Housing Standards Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with housing standards and enforcement. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Principal Housing Standards Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge: Since this role requires strong technical expertise, be sure to mention your experience with HHSRS inspections and managing complex cases. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their understanding of housing regulations and how they’ve applied them in real situations.
Highlight Leadership Skills: As a senior position, we value leadership experience. Share examples of how you’ve guided and supported junior officers or led projects in the past. This will help us see your capability to manage a team and drive improvements in housing standards.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruitment Boutique Ltd
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and relevant housing legislation. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in past roles, especially in enforcement actions and managing complex cases.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Housing Standards Officer, you'll be guiding junior officers. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or mentored others. Highlight your ability to support and improve service delivery.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to discuss specific challenges you've faced in housing standards and how you resolved them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and show your analytical skills.
✨Engage with the Community Focus
This role is about making a difference in residents' lives. Be ready to talk about your commitment to community service and how you've previously supported vulnerable populations, particularly in relation to housing adaptations.
