Empty Property Officer

This role initially is a 2 year contract

We are seeking a dedicated and proactive Empty Property Officer to join our clients team. To contribute to the development, implementation and delivery of the Council's Empty Property Strategy, 10 Year Vision and masterplan - to bring empty properties into use through utilising a range of statutory powers and funding a range of statutory and voluntary provisions contained within the strategy and relevant funding programmes.

Responsibilities

• In conjunction with the Housing Standards Manager and Environmental Health Service Manager to develop and implement the Empty Property Strategy
• To bring empty properties back into use using statutory and voluntary provisions.
• To trace and communicate with owners of empty properties to facilitate the return of the property to use.
• To be the first point of contact for all empty property enquiries
• To support the activity of the councils enforcement group in relation to complex enforcement cases. and coordinate the activities of targeted interventions to properties/areas with regeneration, conservation, planning, strategic housing and environmental health..
• To arrange and undertake property inspections using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to determine property condition, categorise risks and recommend action

Requirements:

• Experience in a simliar position from a housing authority, local authority etc.
• Relevant qualification to a minimum of HND Level in a relevant subject (e.g. housing, construction, building technology).
• Minimum of two years' experience of inspection and enforcement pertaining to housing standards.
• Detailed knowledge of the Housing Act 2004 and associated legislationDetailed knowledge and experience in the use and application of the HHSRS.
• Experience of informal and formal investigative and enforcement procedures including PACE, RIPA and other codes of practice.
• Knowledge of housing defects and their implications for the health and safety of the occupants.
• Knowledge of external funding programmes
• Strong understanding of legislation
• Good understanding of built environment
• Strong regulatory background
• This role is integral to maintaining community standards and ensuring the regeneration of vacant properties. We welcome applications from motivated individuals eager to make a positive impact through effective property oversight.