Purpose
Provide excellent tenancy sustainment support to ensure tenancies in the private rented sector are maintained, providing safe and secure housing for customers while meeting local and corporate objectives. Deliver high-quality advice, lettings, and tenancy sustainment services to maximize successful transitions of homeless households into affordable private rented accommodation for clients from various services such as HOC, CYP, and NRTPF. Promote the private rented sector as a viable alternative to social housing to encourage independence, prevent homelessness, and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation.
Responsibilities
1. Work effectively within the private sector to increase the supply of quality accommodation to meet targets.
2. Assess prospective tenants' suitability by reviewing their housing history and financial situation, and evaluating their ability to meet tenancy conditions.
3. Conduct accompanied viewings and provide expert advice on all aspects of letting, including housing benefit and tenancy conditions.
4. Ensure all procured accommodation meets size, type, location requirements, health and safety standards, and complies with policies.
5. Act as the first point of contact for landlords and tenants facing difficulties, mediating disputes to sustain tenancies within legal frameworks.
6. Assist customers in settling into accommodation and familiarize them with local services.
7. Stay informed about local and national policies affecting welfare and housing legislation.
8. Maintain high standards of property condition, investigate disrepair complaints, and manage inventories for incentive or bond schemes.
9. Ensure contractual compliance by landlords and tenants.
10. Collaborate with colleagues and external agencies to deliver customer-focused services meeting targets and KPIs.
11. Record and monitor payments, deposits, and incentives, ensuring proper compliance and recovery where appropriate.
12. Provide high-quality customer service via phone, email, and written communication, responding promptly and professionally.
Knowledge
* Current knowledge of the private rented sector market, contracts, and issues affecting landlords and tenants.
* Understanding of government welfare reforms and their impacts on the private sector.
* Knowledge of private sector housing law, health and safety regulations, and legislation relating to tenancies.
* Awareness of services for households in housing need.
* Understanding of property standards and common building issues.
* Recognition of the importance of value for money in decision-making.
Skills
* Teamwork and initiative in managing cases.
* Ability to foster joint working practices across services.
* Experience working with private sector partners and understanding market needs.
* Commitment to homeless prevention strategies.
* Problem-solving skills with a flexible approach to service delivery.
* Proficiency in database management and IT systems.
* Ability to meet performance targets and achieve positive outcomes.
Requirements
* Must have a Basic DBS clearance.
* Experience working with landlords, letting agents, and accommodation providers.
* Experience supporting homeless individuals or those at risk of homelessness.
* Proven customer service experience in relevant environments.
* Experience working within a homelessness context and managing caseloads effectively.
* Track record in developing initiatives to improve housing opportunities for those in need.
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