Private Sector Housing Enforcement Officers - 2 posts

Job Introduction

Are you ready to become part of a dynamic and energised team dedicated to raising standards for our residents in private accommodation?  If so, please read on...

Role Purpose

As an Officer of the Private Sector Housing Enforcement Team, you will travel throughout the BCP area to implement and enforce laws in the private residential sector.  This includes addressing housing deficiencies, inspections for the Houses in Multiple Occupation and Mobile Homes licensing schemes, and ensuring compliance in higher-risk residential buildings.

Main Responsibilities

• To hold a complex caseload and work on own initiative to manage such.
• To provide clear and detailed advice in response to queries about the application and enforcement of complex legislation and management regulations to a broad range of stakeholders.
• Respond to enquiries regarding private sector housing from members of the public, other Council directorates and external organisations.
• Investigate complaints and give advice and information as required.
• Undertake inspections of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) using the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to identify disrepair, means of escape in case of fire and adherence to management standards. 
• Measure and produce floor plans as necessary. Prepare licence documentation in line with legislative requirements and maintain the HMO Public Register.
• Carry out investigations of unlicensed HMO premises, working with multi agency partners as necessary including collation of evidence, undertaking inspection and serving HMO Declaration as required.
• Undertake inspections in private housing using the Housing, Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to identify deficiencies in habitation, causes of disrepair and overcrowding. 
• Prepare schedules where necessary which set out works required to bring properties up to statutory and council standards.
• Maintain inspection records, file information and statements which are accurate and always up to date.
• Investigate and ensure compliance with the Gas and Carbon Monoxide Regulations.
• Take action where necessary to ensure compliance with relevant legislation, including the preparation and service of statutory notices, orders and demands in accordance with prescribed forms and procedures.
• Establish, maintain and develop partnerships to ensure effective joint working towards targets and priorities.
• Inspect residential mobile home parks in the borough to ensure compliance of the Councils adopted site licence conditions.
• Assist with private sector housing promotional activities.
• Prepare evidence and testimony in accordance with Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) and other relevant legislation including issuing cautions, taking statements and undertake formal interviewing.

The Ideal Candidate will have:

• B/TEC HND/HNC in Environmental Health, Building Studies/Construction, or a similar related subject OR at least 5 years’ experience working in a private sector housing team and be educated to NVQ Level 3 / 2 A Levels or equivalent.
• Certification and 5 years’ experience in use of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and the local authorities regulatory and enforcement powers in relation to HMOs and private sector housing conditions.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation, codes and guidance
• Experience of working with property owners, agents, tenants and the wider community
• Superb communication skills and be self-motivated

Job Requirements

• DBS Check
• Full Driving Licence
• Commitment to continuing professional development

For further information or a quick chat about the role, please contact

Matt King, Jo Morris or Donna Bryant.  

matthew.king@bcpcouncil.gov.uk 01202 128505

jo.morris@bcpcouncil.gov.uk 01202 127592

donna.bryant@bcpcouncil.gov.uk 01202 123906

Interview dates to be confirmed

About BCP Council

BCP Council provides services to a diverse community of 400,000 residents and employs more than 5,000 people.  Our area includes over 15 miles of beautiful world-renowned coastline.  We can offer career defining roles to transform and improve services.  By working with us, you can help deliver a vision of a thriving, word-class, prosperous and inclusive place for generations to come.

Our Benefits

We offer an excellent benefits package for further details see here

As a result of the creation of BCP Council in 2019, we are working on simplifying our terms and conditions of service and will be creating a single pay structure which is to be applicable for all employees. It is important to us that we offer benefits that our colleagues value as part of their total employment package and we are reviewing these to make sure we have it right. We are in the process of establishing a timescale for implementation and colleagues joining us will be included in these changes. Expected to be in place 2024 or early 2025..

DBS

BCP Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the community and expects all staff and volunteers to share the same commitment.  Applicants to this post will be required to complete the appropriate level of Disclosure & Barring Service Check. Please refer to the Job Description or Role Profile for more details.