Housing Standards Officer in Bideford, Devon

Private Housing Standards Officer Contract: 12 weeks Rate: £44.00 per hour (LTD) Hours: Full time Location: Local Authority – EX1 (hybrid/site-based as required)We are currently recruiting for an experienced Private Housing Standards Officer to join a Local Authority Housing Standards / Public Health team on a temporary basis.This is a specialist enforcement-focused role, requiring strong knowledge of private sector housing legislation, HHSRS inspections, and formal enforcement action. The postholder will also provide technical guidance and mentoring support within the wider Housing Standards team. Key Responsibilities Investigate private sector housing complaints and assess landlord compliance Carry out property inspections and HHSRS assessments Take enforcement action under the Housing Act 2004 and Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Prepare enforcement documentation including improvement notices, prohibition orders, civil penalties and prosecution files Conduct PACE-compliant interviews and gather evidential files Provide advice to tenants and landlords on rights, remedies and compliance Support cases involving illegal eviction, harassment and unlawful landlord behaviour Work closely with Housing Options, Environmental Health, Police, Fire Service and partner agencies Manage a complex enforcement caseload in line with policy and statutory guidance Provide mentoring and technical support to other Housing Standards / Renewal Officers Essential Requirements Substantial experience in Private Sector Housing Enforcement Proven competence in HHSRS inspections Strong working knowledge of housing legislation including Housing Act 2004 Experience preparing enforcement files for civil penalty or prosecution Confident handling landlord non-compliance and complex cases Excellent report writing, investigation and decision-making skills Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle Enhanced DBS (or ability to obtain one) Desirable Experience with Renters’ Rights Act 2025 implementation CIEH / EHRB registration or professional membership Previous mentoring or senior enforcement exposure George Westhead Recruitment Consultant – HousingService Care Solutions?? .uk?