Property Standards and Empty Homes Officer - Elmbridge

About the role

The main function of this role is to improve the housing quality within Elmbridge Borough Council by working proactively and reactively working to improve housing standards across all tenures and reduce the number of empty properties in the borough.



You will work under the supervision of the senior property standards and empty homes officer to investigate and resolve complaints of poor housing conditions and undertake inspections of caravan sites and take appropriate enforcement action to ensure compliance with appropriate legislation and regulatory requirements.



You will also be responsible for the maintenance of the Private Sector Housing team's computerised records systems.





The main purpose of the role:

To improve the quality, safety and choice of residential accommodation in Elmbridge and meeting the Council's responsibilities under the Housing Acts and other legislation.
To ensure best use of the housing stock by minimising the number of empty properties.
To provide an excellent service to owners, occupiers and tenants in all tenures through action by a range of intervention strategies, including enforcement, education and advice.










Specific duties and responsibilities

Under the guidance, direction and general supervision of the Senior Property Standards & Empty Homes Officer or the Private sector Housing manager:



To carry out pro-active and programmed inspections of residential properties


Investigation of complaints regarding housing disrepair, in line with council policies and procedures, using the HHSRS. Where necessary and appropriate, to initiate and prepare recommendations for enforcement action in line with council policies and procedures.


Inspection, licensing and enforcement of houses of multiple occupation in line with council policies and procedures under supervision by the Senior property standards and empty homes officer.




Investigate empty homes and proactively approach the owners of empty homes to advise them on their options in line with council policy and procedures. Work towards the council's aim to achieve the council's target of the reduction of long-term empty homes, as set out in the council's Empty Homes Strategy.


Undertake general environmental protection complaint work under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, where relating to statutory nuisances.


To advise residents, owners and landlords on matters of disrepair, housing standards and, in general terms, on the procurement and funding of building works.


Dealing with complaints/enquiries concerning empty properties and where necessary, undertake detailed inspection, prepare recommendations in line with council policies, and refer to other sections in the council.


Where statutory notices have been served, monitor compliance and take appropriate action in the event of failure to comply


To provide all necessary information and evidence to facilitate legal proceedings and appear as a witness for the Council in legal proceedings, tribunals and enquiries, as required under supervision by the Senior property standards and empty homes officer.


Maintain records and reports and provide such statistical information as may be required in relation to the duties attached to the post


Represent the council at meetings with internal and external partners.


Keep up to date with current legislation, regulations, guidance and technical developments.


Promote good working relationships with partners such as Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, Care & Repair Elmbridge (home improvement agency), Surrey County Council, other local authorities and internal departments.




The post holder is required to be flexible and provide cover and support to other Officers in the Service, as necessary.

To apply reach out to me on :

02030471496

Eden Brown Synergy is an equal opportunities employer.

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