Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage housing standards, enforce regulations, and improve residential properties in the borough.
- Company: Swale Borough Council, a progressive local authority in Kent.
- Benefits: Generous holidays, flexible working, free parking, and employee assistance programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in housing improvement while enjoying a great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Health and relevant experience in housing standards.
- Other info: Hybrid role with excellent career growth opportunities and supportive team culture.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer
Join to apply for the Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer role at Swale Borough Council
About the role
A vacancy has arisen to join the Housing Standards and Assistance Team as Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer. In this role, you will manage your own caseload and undertake appropriate enforcement action to tackle disrepair and energy deficiencies in residential properties using HHSRS and relevant enforcement powers. You will undertake HMO licencing and enforcement activities and oversee the operational delivery and continuous improvement of the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) programme.
This is a great opportunity for an experienced environmental-health housing professional to make a real difference to housing improvement within the borough.
This is a full-time position, working 34 hours per week on a permanent contract. This is a hybrid role with the expectation to attend the office at least two days per week.
About Swale Borough Council
Swale Borough Council is a progressive and ambitious Local Authority, located less than an hour from Central London in an attractive and diverse part of Kent, involving urban, rural, and coastal areas. We believe that staff are our most valuable asset, and we’re committed to attracting and retaining the very best. In recent times, we have adapted and evolved to meet the current world by introducing a highly flexible, hybrid working policy, along with a 34-hour week, recognising that staff wellbeing and work-life balance are high on our agenda.
Our Offer
- Generous holiday entitlement, which increases after five years\’ LG service, plus bank holidays, with the option to buy additional leave
- An additional three days\’ leave given to enable a closure of the offices between Christmas and New Year
- Free parking
- Invitations to staff events to celebrate success and support wellbeing that include holistic therapies and outdoor activities
- Employee Assistance Programme, which provides confidential and independent information and access to counsellors
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with valuable life cover and financial protection for your family
- Life Assurance – three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS)
- Season Ticket Loan – to help with the cost of your rail/bus journey, to and from work
- Lease car salary sacrifice scheme, allowing you to lease a brand-new car; the monthly fee includes insurance, servicing, and road tax
- Cycle to work scheme
- Staff benefits, including discounts on leisure, eating out, holidays, and shopping
- Excellent learning and career opportunities for committed individuals
- A professional fee payment, if required for the role
About You
The successful candidate should have:
- A degree in Environmental Health or equivalent and a Certificate of Registration with the Environmental Health Board
- A Certificate in HHSRS and experience in using the rating system to assess properties, or an equivalent qualification with substantial relevant experience
- Excellent communication and organisational skills with significant experience and knowledge of the relevant legislation
- The ability to lead and motivate others to achieve the aims and responsibilities of the Council
- We are open to applicants with substantial experience in the private rented sector, especially those who have worked in regulatory compliance roles with a robust enforcement background.
This role will require you to carry out site visits where needed, and so you will need to have a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle. We have adopted a flexible working approach to improve work-life balance, and this includes working from home, attending the office two days a week or more, and face-to-face meetings to ensure the functions of the department are managed and maintained.
Selection Process
Following the submission of your application form, it will be reviewed by the recruiting manager. Those who are successful in securing an interview can expect a job-specific interview assessment, followed by an interview.
As this role requires you to hold a valid UK driving licence, please ensure you include this information in your application.
Swale Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Application Details
If you would like to discuss this position, please contact San Nyunt, Housing Standards and Assistance Manager, 0179 541 7238
To apply for the position, please select the Apply button shown.
Closing Date: 16th November 2025
Interview Date: 26th November 2025
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer employer: Swale Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Swale Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the housing and environmental health sectors. Attend local events or webinars where you can meet people from Swale Borough Council or similar organisations. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research Swale Borough Council’s recent projects and initiatives in housing standards. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around HHSRS and DFG programmes. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Swale Borough Council. Let’s get you that Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Principal Housing Standards and Assistance Officer.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your degree in Environmental Health and any relevant certifications, like HHSRS. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their expertise, so make it clear how you meet these requirements.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Swale Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HHSRS and the relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in past roles, especially in enforcement actions and property assessments.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your experience in managing caseloads and leading teams. Think of specific examples where you've made a difference in housing standards or compliance, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders, whether they be tenants, landlords, or colleagues.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the council's vision for housing improvement. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
