Private Rented Sector Officer

Job Title: PRS Officer (Private Rented Sector Officer)

Location: Kent / Sussex

Rate: £24.00 - £30.00 per hour

Contract: 6 Months

Working Pattern: Full Time

PRS Officer required for a Local Authority covering the Kent and Sussex area on an initial 6-month contract.

The successful candidate will play a key role in preventing and relieving homelessness by securing accommodation within the Private Rented Sector. You will work closely with landlords, letting agents, and housing applicants to increase access to suitable private sector housing and help the authority meet its statutory homelessness duties.

Key Responsibilities:

• Source and secure suitable private rented accommodation for households at risk of homelessness.

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with landlords, letting agents, and accommodation providers.

• Negotiate tenancy agreements and placements on behalf of applicants.

• Support households to access and sustain private rented accommodation.

• Promote landlord incentive schemes and other housing initiatives.

• Assess property suitability and ensure compliance with housing standards.

• Work closely with Housing Needs, Homelessness Prevention, and Temporary Accommodation teams.

• Provide advice and guidance to applicants on private sector housing options.

• Assist with homelessness prevention and relief duties under the Homelessness Reduction Act.

• Monitor tenancy sustainment outcomes and provide ongoing support where required.

• Maintain accurate records and case notes using housing management systems.

• Ensure services are delivered in line with relevant housing legislation and council policies.

Requirements:

• Previous experience working as a PRS Officer, Private Sector Lettings Officer, Housing Solutions Officer, Homelessness Prevention Officer, or similar.

• Strong understanding of homelessness legislation and housing options services.

• Experience engaging with landlords and securing private rented accommodation.

• Knowledge of the private rented sector and tenancy management.

• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

• Ability to manage a varied caseload and achieve placement targets.

• Experience working within a Local Authority environment is highly desirable.

• Full UK driving licence preferred.

If you are an experienced PRS Officer looking for your next Local Authority contract opportunity, please apply with your updated CV for immediate consideration.