2 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• Senior Private Sector Housing Enforcement Officer required to lead on Rogue Landlord enforcement within Luton Borough Council’s Private Sector Housing team.
• The role involves supervising officers, inspecting private sector housing (including HMOs), and taking robust enforcement action to improve housing standards.
• The postholder will manage complex investigations, prosecutions, and tribunal cases, working closely with landlords, residents, partner agencies, and internal teams.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Supervise, mentor, and provide specialist advice to lower-grade officers, including 1-2-1s, training, and performance support.
• Inspect private sector dwellings and HMOs in line with legislation, including the Housing Act 2004, HHSRS, Decent Homes Standard, and HMO Regulations.
• Identify unlicensed HMOs and take formal enforcement action, including works in default and financial recovery.
• Investigate complex Rogue Landlord cases and service requests, liaising with professionals and partner agencies.
• Prepare prosecution cases, present evidence in court and Residential Property Tribunals, and attend appeals and hearings.
• Represent the Council at meetings, tribunals, court proceedings, and public forums.
• Promote and contribute to housing initiatives including Decent Homes, energy efficiency, affordable warmth, and safeguarding referrals.
• Act as Lead Officer on specific projects to improve service delivery when required.
Skills/Experience:
• Extensive experience in Private Sector Housing enforcement, specifically Rogue Landlord investigations.
• Proven supervisory or line management experience within a housing or environmental health setting.
• Strong working knowledge of housing legislation, enforcement procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience preparing cases for prosecution and presenting evidence at court or Residential Property Tribunals.
• Ability to assess complex building conditions and evaluate remedial works.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and conflict management skills.
• Strong report writing, evidence gathering, and case management abilities.
• Confident use of IT systems and housing enforcement software.
• In-depth knowledge of building construction and services.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
Additional Information:
• The closing date: 27/02/2026.
• Location: Luton.
• Contract: Temporary.
• Rate: £45 per hour (Umbrella).
• Working pattern: Office-based minimum 2 days per week with daily site visits across the Borough.
• Must be able to undertake building inspections, including use of ladders and access to confined spaces.
• Qualification: Environmental Health qualification (EHO/EHP/CEHP) or equivalent relevant experience.