Principal Housing Standards Officer

About the Role
An exciting senior opportunity has arisen within a Local Authority Housing Standards and Assistance Team in Kent. As a Principal Housing Standards Officer, you will manage a complex caseload and lead enforcement action to address poor housing conditions, disrepair, and energy efficiency issues across the borough.

You will use the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and relevant legislative powers to drive improvements in the private rented sector, including House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing and enforcement. In addition, you will oversee the operational delivery of Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) and housing adaptations, ensuring the process is managed end-to-end and effectively supports residents needs.

This is a hands-on role offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to residents lives, particularly those requiring adaptations to live safely and independently.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload relating to housing disrepair, hazards, and energy efficiency
• Undertake enforcement action using the HHSRS and relevant legislation
• Deliver HMO licensing and enforcement activities
• Lead and oversee the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) and housing adaptations programme
• Carry out site visits and inspections as required
• Support service improvement and wider team objectives
• Guide and support junior officers in operational tasks and enforcement procedures

Essential Qualifications / Academic Requirements for Principal Housing Standards Officer
Candidates must hold one of the following:

• Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) Accredited Level 4 Housing Regulatory Compliance
• CIEH Accredited Level 5 Diploma in Housing and Health
• CIEH Accredited Degree or Master s in Environmental Health (ideal)

Essential Technical Experience
Candidates must demonstrate proven, practical experience in:

• Private sector housing standards and enforcement
• HHSRS inspections and enforcement actions
• Managing complex enforcement cases under the Housing Act 2004
• Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) and housing adaptations, including liaison with occupational therapists (OTs), understanding budgets, and managing the end-to-end process
• Operating at a senior/lead level with the ability to guide and support officers

About You
The ideal candidate will be an experienced housing professional with strong technical knowledge and leadership capability, excellent communication and organisational skills, and a commitment to delivering high standards of service to residents.

Benefits

• Salary: £48,657 £54,727 per annum
• Progressive and supportive working environment
• 34-hour working week with hybrid flexibility
• Generous annual leave, with additional leave for Christmas/New Year and after 5 years service
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with life cover
• Life assurance, free parking, season ticket loan, and cycle-to-work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing initiatives, and discount schemes
• Professional fee payment where applicable
• Excellent learning and career development opportunities

Location: Kent (NB - this role is Hybrid minimum 2 days per week office/field-based)

If this role aligns with your experience and career ambitions, please send your CV and a covering letter.