EHO/Private Sector Housing Officer

Job Purpose:

To support 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). This role aims to protect and enhance the health, safety, and wellbeing of residents through both enforcement and advisory work.

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.

Essential Requirements:

• 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.
• Enhanced DBS clearance.

Desirable:

• Experience working on Empty Homes initiatives and knowledge of relevant powers (e.g. EDMOs, compulsory purchase).
• Knowledge of Disabled Facilities Grant legislation, processes, and funding frameworks.
• Familiarity with MEES regulations, civil penalty notices, and enforcement best practice.
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) or similar body.