Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate housing complaints, enforce standards, and support housing improvements.
- Company: Join Sharper Consulting Services, dedicated to enhancing private sector housing in Kent.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model with competitive pay of £40-£50 per hour.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on housing conditions while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Health or related field; experience in housing enforcement required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, 3-month contract with an ASAP start date.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 60000 £ per year.
Sharper Consulting Services are working with our client in Kent in their search for an EHO/Private Sector Housing Officer to assist in the improvement of housing conditions in the private sector, including enforcement of housing standards, the regulation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), bringing empty homes back into use, and administering Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs).
ASAP Start Date
3 Month Contract
Full Time (Hybrid Working)
£40-£50 Per Hour
Key Responsibilities:- Investigate housing condition complaints in the private rented sector, carrying out inspections under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
- Enforce housing legislation including the Housing Act 2004, preparing and serving notices, prohibition orders, and taking legal action where necessary.
- Assess and process Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) applications, including carrying out preliminary inspections, liaising with Occupational Therapists, and overseeing the delivery of necessary adaptations.
- Support the delivery of the councils Empty Homes strategy, including identifying long-term vacant properties, engaging with owners, and using enforcement powers to bring them back into use where appropriate.
- Inspect and regulate Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), ensuring compliance with licensing conditions and relevant legislation.
- Provide professional advice and support to landlords, tenants, and members of the public on housing conditions and improvement options.
- Collaborate with internal teams (e.g. Legal, Social Care, Housing Options) and external agencies (e.g. Fire Service, Police) to manage complex or vulnerable housing cases.
- Represent the council in legal proceedings, tribunals, and multi-agency casework as needed.
- Keep accurate and timely records of inspections, enforcement actions, grant applications, and casework.
- Degree or Diploma in Environmental Health or related housing qualification.
- Proven experience in a local authority setting dealing with private sector housing enforcement, HMOs, and DFGs.
- HHSRS trained and demonstrably competent.
- Good understanding of the Housing Act 2004, DFG process, HMO licensing, and enforcement powers.
- Ability to manage a varied caseload independently with strong organisational and case management skills.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills with experience of partnership working.
- Membership of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) or similar body.
EHO/Private Sector Housing Specialist in Sittingbourne employer: SHARPER CONSULTING SERVICES LIMITED
Contact Detail:
SHARPER CONSULTING SERVICES LIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land EHO/Private Sector Housing Specialist in Sittingbourne
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Housing Act 2004 and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). Understanding these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and your expertise in private sector housing.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the environmental health field, especially those who work in local authorities. Attend relevant seminars or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about current challenges in private sector housing enforcement.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific cases where you've successfully managed housing complaints or enforced housing standards. Real-life examples will showcase your experience and problem-solving skills, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and issues in the housing sector, particularly regarding HMOs and empty homes. This knowledge will allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews and show that you're proactive about your professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace EHO/Private Sector Housing Specialist in Sittingbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in environmental health, private sector housing enforcement, and your understanding of the Housing Act 2004. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in managing caseloads and working with HMOs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for improving housing conditions and detail how your background aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description. Mention your HHSRS training and any relevant achievements that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is essential for this role, consider including examples in your application that illustrate your ability to advise landlords and tenants effectively, as well as your experience in partnership working with various agencies.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your degree or diploma in Environmental Health and any memberships with professional bodies like the CIEH. This will reinforce your qualifications and commitment to the field.
How to prepare for a job interview at SHARPER CONSULTING SERVICES LIMITED
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Housing Act 2004 and the HHSRS. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to the role and provide examples of how you've enforced them in previous positions.
✨Demonstrate Your Experience
Highlight your experience in private sector housing enforcement, particularly with HMOs and DFGs. Use specific examples to showcase your ability to manage a varied caseload and your success in improving housing conditions.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, be ready to demonstrate your strong communication and negotiation skills. Share instances where you successfully collaborated with landlords, tenants, or other agencies.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think about past challenges you've faced in housing enforcement and how you resolved them, as this will show your practical knowledge and decision-making skills.
