Private Sector Lettings Officer

Woking Borough Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Private Sector Housing Letting’s Officer to join our Let’s Rent Housing Team. This is an exciting opportunity to for an individual passionate about improving housing options within the Private Sector, working with landlords and tenants to deliver high-quality services.

Woking Borough Council has a unique Private Sector Lettings scheme for residents who are homeless or are threatened with homelessness. As a Private Sector Housing Lettings Officer, you will be responsible for managing and facilitating the allocation of properties within the private sector. You will work closely with private landlords, tenants and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and efficient lettings process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the allocation of private rented accommodation, ensuring compliance with housing policies and legislation.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with private sector landlords and letting agents to encourage engagement.
• Conduct property inspections to ensure the property meet and are kept within the required standards and regulations.
• Provide excellent customer service to both landlords and tenants, addressing any issues or concerns promptly and professionaly.
• Work closely with other teams within the Council and services outside of the Council, to deliver coordinated services.
• Continually work with the Private Sector Housing Team Leader to inprove the schemes and adapting to the ever-changing Lettings Industry.

Skills and Experience:

• A good understanding of private sector housing, legislation, and relevant housing policies.
• Experience in housing management, lettings, or a similar role.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a variety of staeholders.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• A customer-focused approach and a commitment to delivering a high-quality service.
• A good knowledge of Word, Excel and Outlook and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels are essential.
• Knowledge of housing law, including landlord and tenant responsibilities, and relevant housing benefits knowledge would be an advantage.

The ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for this post.  An assessment may be required. If you have any queries or would like to discuss this further, please contact the Human Resources team.

Please note that it is a requirement of this role to have a full UK driving License and access to a car that can be driven for Council business purposes.

Benefits:

• Hybrid working 4 days in the office, 1 day working from home
• 23 days annual leave increasing to 28 upon 5 years service, plus 8 days for bank holidays.
• Vehicle Allowance of £2,600 (amount dependant on CO2 emmisions of vehicle)
• Flexible Benefits Allowance of £1,881 which can be used to pay for a parking permit in the town centre
• Training and development opportunities
• Mileage allowance

The Council offers a generous flexi time scheme with the ability to take two flexi days a month, membership of the local government pension scheme, discounted health and leisure membership, plus many more excellent benefits. 

Who to contact for informal discussion:

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Clare Hadley (Private Sector Housing Team Leader) on 01483 743 455 or email on clare.hadley@woking.gov.uk.

Closing Date:      8 April 2025

Interview Dates:  15 &16 April 2025 (dates may be subject to change)