Job Description
PRS Lettings Negotiator – Local Authority (5-Month Contract, Potential Extension)
Start Date: ASAP
Employer: Aatom Recruitment (on behalf of a Local Authority)
Aatom Recruitment are seeking an experienced PRS Lettings Negotiator to join a busy Housing Needs team within a local authority. This is a 5-month contract with the potential for extension, supporting vital work to prevent homelessness and secure suitable private rented accommodation for residents in need.
About the Role
As a PRS Lettings Negotiator, you will lead on securing a steady supply of affordable private rented sector accommodation through proactive negotiation with landlords and agents. You will play a key part in preventing homelessness by identifying properties, negotiating rents, offering incentives, and supporting residents to begin and sustain their tenancies.
Working closely with Housing Advisors and other teams across Housing Needs, you will ensure households are placed into safe, suitable, and sustainable accommodation, while building strong relationships with private landlords, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation.
You will report to the Private Sector Lettings Senior Officer.
Key ResponsibilitiesProperty Sourcing & Negotiation
* Operate a proactive property-finding service using leads, landlord networks, online platforms, and direct outreach.
* Negotiate rent levels and agree incentive payments from the Homelessness Prevention Fund.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with private landlords, letting agents, and partners.
* Inform landlords about council services, responsibilities, and available support.
Property Inspection & Compliance
* Inspect properties and prepare detailed inspection reports.
* Assess suitability for households in housing need.
* Identify disrepair, health and safety issues, and potential hazards.
* Work with internal teams including Empty Property Officers and Enforcement Services to maximise grant take-up and improve property standards.
Tenant Matching & Support
* Assess prospective tenants' suitability by reviewing their housing history and financial circumstances.
* Match residents to suitable properties and arrange accompanied viewings.
* Provide expert advice on all aspects of letting for both tenants and landlords.
* Support tenants with Housing Benefit or Universal Credit applications and ensuring rent payment arrangements are in place.
Administration, Reporting & Customer Care
* Advertise, inspect and let all available PRS properties promptly.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date records using internal IT systems.
* Respond to member enquiries, complaints, and case-related correspondence.
* Manage own administrative tasks, emails, calls, and general office duties.
* Participate in landlord forums, events, and promotional activities for the Private Renting Scheme.
Service Delivery & Professional Standards
* Ensure compliance with all council policies, including safeguarding, financial regulations, health and safety, data protection, and equalities.
* Take an active role in service development, reviews, training, and professional development.
* Provide cover for colleagues when required, including clear handover notes.
* Support the delivery of a cost-effective and efficient private sector lettings service.
Key Knowledge & Skills Required
K1: Understanding of housing legislation, homelessness, housing management, and the allocation process, with practical experience of housing-related issues.
K2: Broad knowledge of the housing and support needs of homeless households, applicants, and tenants, including benefits.
K3: Strong practical knowledge of property standards, health and safety regulations, legislative requirements, and best practice.
Why Join?
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the community by helping secure safe, affordable homes for vulnerable residents. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy building relationships with landlords, and are passionate about preventing homelessness, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact Anisha Patel to apply now!