Rent Recovery Officer

Location: South Woodford
Salary: 15,000 - 22,500 per annum (15-20 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: 3-4 days per week, flexible hours (office-based only)

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Rent Recovery Officer to join the Management Department at an established and highly respected Letting & Management organisation. This role is working with is one of London's leading Rent Guarantee Service Provision Specialists, working closely with Local and Central Government to procure properties that fulfil Emergency Housing requirements.

We are seeking a dynamic, organised and articulate individual with proven social housing rent recovery experience. The successful candidate will be resilient, target-driven and confident managing complex arrears cases.

Arrears Management

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  Monitor rent accounts to identify early-stage arrears
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  Take prompt and effective recovery action in line with company policy

Universal Credit Specialism

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  Provide expert support to tenants managing Universal Credit claims
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  Assist with Housing Element applications to ensure accurate and timely payments

Alternative Payment Arrangements (APAs)

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  Identify high-risk cases
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  Apply for Managed Payments to Landlords and third-party deductions where appropriate

Tenancy Sustainment

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  Conduct affordability assessments and income/expenditure reviews
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  Negotiate sustainable repayment plans to prevent homelessness

Legal Action and Court Support

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  Prepare possession claims and supporting evidence
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  Assist with County Court hearings where necessary
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  Liaise with court-appointed bailiffs following possession orders

Partnership Working

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  Act as key liaison with Local Authority Housing Benefit teams
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  Resolve complex payment disputes and benefit-related issues

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  Proven experience in rent collection or debt recovery within a Local Authority or Housing Association
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  Strong understanding of Welfare Reform and Universal Credit
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  Knowledge of Landlord and Tenant legislation and the Pre-Action Protocol for Rent Arrears
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  Experience assisting tenants with Discretionary Housing Payments and hardship funds

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  Strong negotiation skills with the ability to balance empathy and firmness
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  Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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  Ability to draft legal notices and court documentation
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  Proficiency in housing management systems and Microsoft Office
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  High level of numerical accuracy and attention to detail

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  Resilient and professional when managing challenging caseloads
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  Target-driven with a focus on arrears reduction KPIs
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  Highly organised with the ability to meet strict legal deadlines

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  Birthday holiday entitlement
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  1.5 additional days annual leave for every two years of service (capped at six extra days)
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  Future company healthcare options
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  Bonus and additional earning incentives

This role would suit an experienced Rent Recovery professional seeking a flexible, part-time position within a well-established and reputable property organisation.