Principal Enforcement Officer (BF5096)

We are recruiting experienced private sector housing professionals to fill a number of permanent vacancies within a high-profile and ambitious service.

With a private rented sector of almost 30,000 properties, around 1,000 service requests each year, and extensive landlord licensing schemes, effective regulation remains a key priority for both officers and elected members.

Following the adoption of a new Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy in July 2026, incorporating powers under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, the Council is committed to taking robust action against non-compliant landlords, although staffing challenges have impacted its ability to deliver the pace of change required. change that is needed to improve housing

Role focus: Whilst the supplied job description provides details of the tasks/duties that might be required of the post holder, the two main functions/activities that will be the focus for successful candidates are: a) Responding to service requests including visits, the assessment of conditions and the identification of relevant enforcement options; and/or b) Enforcement, either reactive as part of the outcome to a complaint visit or proactive, such as taking action in relation to an unlicensed property.

We need candidates to demonstrate their ability to carry out competent and thorough inspections, have a demonstrable knowledge of the full range of enforcement options that are available in a given scenario and, preferably to have experience in prosecution and/or CPN work as well as possessing excellent communication skills.

• Explain enforcement cases they have personally managed from inspection through to resolution
• Demonstrate sound judgement about informal versus formal enforcement
• Demonstrable knowledge of the full range of enforcement options that are available in a given scenario
• Have prepared notices and enforcement documentation themselves
• Be comfortable challenging landlords and managing difficult conversations
• Understand evidential standards and record keeping
• Prioritise a demanding caseload without significant management oversight

Essential Technical Experience – Private Sector Housing

Requirement Minimum Level / experience

• HHSRS inspections Mandatory
• HMO inspections/ enforcement Mandatory
• Housing Act 2004 Mandatory
• Serving Statutory Notices Mandatory
• Civil penalties Desirable
• Prosecution case preparation Desirable
• Court/ tribunal Desirable
• Licensing Conditions enforcement Desirable
• Managing complex service requests Mandatory

Qualifications Minimum Level / experience

• HHSRS Mandatory
• BSc/MSc in Environmental Health or other relevant qualification

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