At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect properties, enforce housing standards, and engage with landlords and tenants.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council in a stunning location near national parks.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension, enhanced leave, and various perks.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and supporting young applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in housing standards while enjoying beautiful surroundings.
- Qualifications: Experience in Environmental Health and knowledge of housing legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 36363 - 44075 £ per year.
Would you like to work in one of the most beautiful parts of the country? Westmorland and Furness Council is a relatively new unitary Council combining Barrow-in-Furness, Eden and South Lakeland districts. The new Council planning area is adjacent to two national parks, including the stunning Lake District National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as western parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The national parks offer a rich tapestry of lakes, mountains and countryside, which offer extensive outdoor opportunities, whilst the towns and villages brim with local character. With friendly communities, low crime rate, cultural attractions and stunning locations, Westmorland and Furness Council makes an attractive proposition for one and all.
Who we are looking for… Westmorland and Furness Council is seeking to recruit a Housing Standards Officer. You'll manage a varied caseload across the Private Rented Sector, focusing on housing standards, enforcement and regulatory compliance. Key responsibilities will include:
- Undertaking property inspections and investigations, applying the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to identify and assess Category 1 and Category 2 hazards
- Determining and implementing appropriate enforcement action in accordance with the Housing Act 2004 and associated legislation
- Preparing and serving statutory notices and taking formal enforcement action, including the use of Civil Penalties where appropriate
- Investigating complaints relating to housing conditions, disrepair and wider private sector housing issues
- Engaging with landlords, tenants, internal services and partner agencies to secure compliance and resolve cases
- Producing clear, accurate inspection reports, case records and evidential documentation to support enforcement action
- Contributing to the delivery of wider Environmental Health and Housing Enforcement functions and service objectives
About You To be considered for this Housing Standards role, you will have:
- Recent experience working within a Local Authority Environmental Health or Private Sector Housing service, with a clear understanding of regulatory and enforcement functions
- Sound working knowledge of the Housing Act 2004, HHSRS and associated housing enforcement legislation, and the ability to apply this in practice
- Experience of undertaking enforcement activity, including the preparation and issue of statutory notices and, where appropriate, Civil Penalty Notices
- The ability to manage a varied and demanding caseload independently, using your initiative to prioritise and progress cases effectively
- Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage confidently with landlords, tenants and partner agencies, including in challenging situations
- The ability to produce clear, accurate and legally robust reports, records and evidential documentation
- A relevant Environmental Health qualification with EHRB registration, or equivalent knowledge, skills and experience
- A positive contribution to a team environment, supporting wider service objectives and continuous improvement
- Adaptability and responsiveness to service needs, including the ability to commence employment within required timeframes where possible
What can we offer you!
- Competitive pension scheme
- Enhanced annual leave allowance
- Other various perks and discounts schemes
DBS Individuals may be required to have Baseline Personnel Security Standard checks in place for this role, dependent on access to specific government systems, which does include a Basic DBS check. The recruiting manager will discuss the requirements for this appointment, with the successful candidate.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences. As a Disability Confident Leader, disabled applicants, who meet the essential criteria of this job, are guaranteed an interview. We also offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces personnel and veterans and those in care or care experienced and under 24 years old that meet the essential criteria for the role.
Housing Standards Officer in Kendal employer: Westmorland And Furness Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and community impact. As a Vision Rehab Specialist, you will have the opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals in a multidisciplinary team, enhancing your skills while making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with sight loss. With competitive benefits such as a pension scheme and enhanced annual leave, this role provides a rewarding career path in a vibrant location.
Contact Details:
Westmorland And Furness Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Standards Officer in Kendal
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Westmorland And Furness Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Westmorland And Furness Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Standards Officer in Kendal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Westmorland And Furness Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Westmorland And Furness Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Westmorland And Furness Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Westmorland And Furness Council.
