Private Housing Standards Officer
Contract: 12 weeks
Rate: £44.00 per hour (LTD)
Hours: Full time
Location: Local Authority – EX1 (hybrid/site-based as required)
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Private Housing Standards Officer to join a Local Authority Housing Standards / Public Health team on a temporary basis.
This is a specialist enforcement-focused role, requiring strong knowledge of private sector housing legislation, HHSRS inspections, and formal enforcement action. The postholder will also provide technical guidance and mentoring support within the wider Housing Standards team.
Key Responsibilities
Investigate private sector housing complaints and assess landlord compliance
Carry out property inspections and HHSRS assessments
Take enforcement action under the Housing Act 2004 and Renters’ Rights Act 2025
Prepare enforcement documentation including improvement notices, prohibition orders, civil penalties and prosecution files
Conduct PACE-compliant interviews and gather evidential files
Provide advice to tenants and landlords on rights, remedies and compliance
Support cases involving illegal eviction, harassment and unlawful landlord behaviour
Work closely with Housing Options, Environmental Health, Police, Fire Service and partner agencies
Manage a complex enforcement caseload in line with policy and statutory guidance
Provide mentoring and technical support to other Housing Standards / Renewal OfficersEssential Requirements
Substantial experience in Private Sector Housing Enforcement
Proven competence in HHSRS inspections
Strong working knowledge of housing legislation including Housing Act 2004
Experience preparing enforcement files for civil penalty or prosecution
Confident handling landlord non-compliance and complex cases
Excellent report writing, investigation and decision-making skills
Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
Enhanced DBS (or ability to obtain one)Desirable
Experience with Renters’ Rights Act 2025 implementation
CIEH / EHRB registration or professional membership
Previous mentoring or senior enforcement exposureGeorge Westhead
Recruitment Consultant – Housing
Service Care Solutions
📧 (url removed)
☎(phone number removed)