Role: Private Sector Housing Officer
Location: Harrow, Middlesex, HA3 8NT
Pay: £26.12 - £29.65 per hour (Umbrella)
Contract: Full time, temporary assignment
Start: ASAP
About the Role
The London Borough of Harrow is seeking an experienced Private Sector Housing Officer to join its busy Private Sector Housing team. You'll play a key role in improving housing standards across the borough, ensuring residents live in safe, healthy, and well‑managed homes. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong technical knowledge of housing legislation and a passion for protecting tenants’ rights.
Key Responsibilities
* Carry out inspections of privately rented properties using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
* Identify hazards, assess risks, and determine the most appropriate enforcement action.
* Manage and enforce HMO licensing, selective licensing, and additional licensing schemes.
* Investigate complaints relating to disrepair, overcrowding, illegal eviction, and landlord harassment.
* Prepare and serve statutory notices, civil penalties, and other enforcement actions under the Housing Act 2004 and related legislation.
* Provide advice and guidance to landlords, tenants, and managing agents on legal responsibilities and best practice.
* Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners including Environmental Health, Fire Services, and Social Care.
* Maintain accurate case records, evidence files, and reports to support enforcement decisions.
Skills & Experience Required
* Strong working knowledge of housing legislation, including HHSRS, HMO regulations, and enforcement powers.
* Experience conducting property inspections and preparing enforcement notices.
* Ability to manage a varied caseload and work independently.
* Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage confidently with landlords, tenants, and partner agencies.
* Background in Environmental Health, Housing Standards, or similar regulatory roles is highly desirable.
* HHSRS certification preferred or willingness to work towards it.
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