Principle Housing Standards and Assistance Officer

Buckingham Futures; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority partner seeks an experienced Private Sector Housing Officer to ensure housing safety and compliance in the private sector. The role includes investigating tenant complaints, conducting property inspections for health and safety adherence, and providing guidance to landlords and tenants on legal obligations. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of relevant housing regulations and possess key skills in organising, report writing, and decision making. A relevant degree or professional membership is essential.

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
• Experience inspecting residential and multi-occupied properties, including fire safety compliance.

Responsibilities

• Investigate private sector housing complaints from tenants or residents.
• Inspect residential properties to assess compliance with health, safety, and housing standards.
• Conduct detailed HHSRS assessments for hazards.
• Provide guidance to landlords and tenants regarding legal obligations.
• Take enforcement action including serving notices or escalating to court.

Skills

Knowledge of Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

Understanding of Housing Act 2004

Report-writing skills

Strong organisational skills

Decision-making skills

Education

Relevant degree or professional membership (CIEH, RICS, CIH)

HHSRS qualification

Job description

Good Morning,

Buckingham Futures is partnering with a Local Authority in South East England to recruit experienced Private Sector Housing Officers. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on housing safety, compliance, and enforcement in the private sector.

Key Details

• Contract: Flexible duration (initial details to be discussed)
• Working pattern: Standard office hours with fieldwork and inspections
• Travel: Access to a car is essential for visiting multiple sites

Responsibilities

• Investigate private sector housing complaints from tenants or residents
• Inspect residential properties, including Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), assessing compliance with health, safety, and housing standards
• Conduct detailed HHSRS assessments for hazards such as fire risk, overcrowding, damp, sanitation issues, and structural defects
• Provide guidance to landlords and tenants regarding their legal obligations
• Take enforcement action where necessary, including serving notices or escalating to court
• Maintain clear, accurate, and timely records of inspections and enforcement actions
• Collaborate with internal teams and external agencies for complex cases
• Contribute to housing policy and procedural improvements

Requirements

• Deep knowledge of Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
• Strong understanding of the Housing Act 2004
• Experience inspecting residential and multi-occupied properties, including fire safety compliance
• Relevant degree or professional membership (CIEH, RICS, CIH)
• HHSRS qualification essential
• Strong organisational, report‑writing, and decision‑making skills

Contact

020 8125 4321

[e-mail] | [e-mail]