Job Title: Rent Officer
Location: Hybrid working (2 days office-based, 3 days from home)
Contract: Initial 12-week assignment
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Rate: £25 Umbrella
The Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Rent Officer to manage rental income across a defined housing portfolio. You will play a key role in maximising income collection, preventing tenancy failure, and supporting residents to sustain their tenancies through early intervention and proactive engagement.
This is a hands-on role requiring strong knowledge of rent recovery, welfare benefits, and legal processes, alongside excellent communication and customer-focused skills.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage rent accounts and take timely action to prevent and reduce arrears
* Deliver effective income collection and recovery in line with legislation and policy
* Provide advice on welfare benefits and support tenants to maximise income
* Prepare court documentation and represent the organisation in possession proceedings
* Carry out home visits, interviews, and rent surgeries within the community
* Work closely with internal teams and external partners including benefits services and support agencies
* Identify and refer vulnerable tenants for appropriate support to sustain tenancies
* Maintain accurate case records and performance data using housing IT systems
* Support service improvement initiatives and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement
About You
* Minimum of 2 years' experience in a rent recovery, income, or housing management role
* Strong working knowledge of welfare benefits and welfare reform
* Experience of legal action relating to rent arrears, including court attendance
* Methodical, organised, and confident managing complex caseloads
* Customer-focused with the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally
* Comfortable working independently and as part of a wider housing team
* Willing to travel locally and undertake home visits as required
Desirable
* Housing-related qualification (or working towards one)
* Experience working within a local authority or social housing environment
* Involvement in service or process improvement projects