Private Rented Sector (PRS) Lettings & Affordability Officer
London Borough of Richmond & Wandsworth
Location: Bridas House, Wandsworth (Fully office‑based)
Contract Type: Temporary
Hours: 36 hours Mon to Fri (09:00:AM - 05:00:PM
Pay Rate: £20.76 per hour PAYE / £27.07 per hour Umbrella
About the Role
In this critical front‑line role, you will support households at risk of homelessness by sourcing, securing, and negotiating access to high‑quality and affordable private rented sector properties. You will work directly with clients, landlords, and agents, ensuring placements are sustainable, safe, and financially viable-particularly for those relying on Universal Credit.
A key objective of the role is to help reduce the local authority's reliance on Temporary Accommodation, supporting long‑term stability for households while achieving targeted reductions in temporary housing expenditure.
You will also contribute to wider strategic initiatives linked to the council's Temporary Accommodation Reduction Strategy, helping to shape future approaches to procurement, homelessness prevention, and private sector engagement.
Top 3 Essential Skills
Demonstrable experience assessing Universal Credit affordability
Experience working within a local authority setting
Experience sourcing and moving clients into private rented sector accommodationKey Responsibilities
Source and Secure Private Rented Properties
Identify suitable, affordable housing options within and outside of the borough, ensuring placements meet required standards and are financially sustainable for clients.
Prevent and Relieve Homelessness
Support clients in line with statutory duties, offering tailored solutions that promote housing stability and reduce risk of homelessness.
Universal Credit Affordability Assessments
Conduct detailed assessments to ensure affordability and sustainability of tenancies for clients in receipt of Universal Credit.
Tenancy Sustainment and Advice
Provide clients with practical guidance on budgeting, housing costs, and financial solutions to maintain long‑term tenancies.
Landlord and Agent Engagement
Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, agents, and partners, negotiating terms and promoting the council's services.
Contribute to Strategic Housing Initiatives
Support project work relating to temporary accommodation reduction and private sector access.
Legislative Compliance
Offer accurate, up‑to‑date advice aligned with current housing legislation, including the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, and ensure placements are suitable and compliant.
Customer Service & Mediation
Provide excellent customer service, resolving disputes and supporting positive outcomes for both clients and landlords.
Property Health & Safety
Identify and report property condition or safety concerns, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.Essential Skills, Knowledge & Experience
Strong understanding of Universal Credit, housing affordability, and financial assessments
Proven track record of working in a local authority housing environment
Experience placing tenants into private rented sector accommodation
Excellent communication, relationship‑building and negotiation skills
Ability to meet and exceed performance targets
Knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, suitability assessments, and statutory requirements
Experience sustaining tenancies and advising on alternative financial solutions
Confidence liaising with diverse stakeholders including clients, landlords, agents, and support services
Good understanding of property health and safety requirements
Ability to deliver high‑quality customer service and mediate to resolve issues effectivelyHow to Apply
If you have the skills, experience and passion to make a meaningful impact in the housing sector, Adecco would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and contact details to begin the application process.
Adecco acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
By applying for this role your details will be submitted to Adecco. Our Candidate Privacy Information Statement explains how we will use your information - please copy and paste the following link in to your browser