Job Title: Housing Enforcement Officer
Purpose and Impact*Improve housing conditions in West Northamptonshire’s private sector and effect a positive and sustained step change in the behaviour of landlords and letting agents through advice, licensing, risk-based interventions and intelligence-led enforcement action.
*Ensure optimum use of civil penalties, rent repayment orders and licensing fees to support the council’s intelligence-led approach to housing enforcement and tackle criminal, rogue and irresponsible landlords.
*Provide an efficient, high-quality advice, information and enforcement service for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) to ensure they are well managed, safe, habitable and licensed where required.
*Work within Housing Enforcement or Housing Regulation, undertaking reactive and intelligence-led enforcement activities or proactive licensing, inspections and compliance actions.
Key Responsibilities*Undertake property inspections, HHSRS assessments, draft schedules of work and prepare and serve notices.
*Conduct interviews under caution, execute warrants of entry, carry out works in default and prepare cases for prosecution or civil penalties.
*Provide evidence in Tribunal and Courts Service when required.
*Investigate harassment and unlawful eviction cases, advise tenants, resolve disputes and take enforcement action where necessary.
*Work with owners and managers of licensable HMOs to ensure properties are licensed, well managed and comply with HMO Management Regulations.
*Respond to complaints regarding serious disrepair and housing-related nuisance in the private sector and assess risks and hazards.
*Work collaboratively with internal teams and external organisations including Planning, Revenues & Benefits, Housing Options & Advice, Anti-Social Behaviour Team, Trading Standards, Police, Immigration and Fire & Rescue Service.
*Maintain professional competence and stay updated with developments in private sector housing enforcement and legislation.
*Contribute to new initiatives that tackle overcrowding, improve housing standards and reduce unlicensed HMOs.
*Use Office 365 and internal IT systems to manage information effectively and securely.
*Promote equality, eliminate discriminatory practices and ensure health, safety and welfare at all times.
Skills and Abilities*Excellent interpersonal, communication, negotiating and advocacy skills.
*Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks and meet tight deadlines.
*Ability to analyse, manage and interpret information and data to support decision making.
*Strategic thinking and ability to suggest improvements to service delivery.
*Effective use of Office 365 and Housing/Regulatory Services IT systems.
Knowledge*In-depth knowledge of Housing Acts, Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and regulatory enforcement powers relating to HMOs and private sector housing.
*Knowledge of wider enforcement options to improve accommodation standards.
*Knowledge of the Protection of Eviction Act 1977 and legislation related to illegal or retaliatory eviction.
Experience*Experience in private sector housing regulation and enforcement using risk-based inspection programmes.
*Experience preparing enforcement cases and giving evidence in the First Tier Tribunal or Magistrates Court.
*Experience operating an HMO Licensing Scheme, including property inspections and compliance with licence conditions.
*Understanding of equality and diversity.
Education and Qualifications*Qualified Housing Enforcement Officer with a relevant degree or proven relevant private sector housing enforcement experience.
*Housing Health and Safety Rating Scheme certified competency (desirable).
*Full driving licence and access to own transport for work purposes.
Additional Information*Hours: 37 hours per week
*Location: Northampton (part-flexible working, including remote working up to 3 days per week)
*Salary Range: £40,316 – £43,675 (Pay Band 8)
*Enhanced DBS check required
*Role involves visiting residential properties, carrying equipment and exposure to housing-related hazards.
Organisational Values – THRIVE*Trust: Honest, fair, transparent and accountable.
*High Performing: Deliver work efficiently and effectively.
*Respect: Supportive and professional environment.
*Innovate: Encourage creativity and growth.
*Value: Promote best practice and continuous improvement.
*Empower: Listen, learn and support people to realise their ambitions.