Housing review Officer – AR

Job Details

Job Title: Housing Review Officer

Department: Economy
Reports to: Housing Review Manager
Grade: P03

Role Summary

The Housing Review Officer leads and conducts statutory reviews of housing and homelessness decisions under the Housing Act 1996 and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017. The role ensures compliance with legislation, local policy, and case law, responds to legal challenges, and provides clear, timely decisions to applicants.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct reviews of homelessness applications, temporary and permanent accommodation suitability, and Housing Register decisions.
  • Apply detailed knowledge of housing law, welfare reform, immigration, and relevant case law to statutory reviews.
  • Liaise with Legal Services regarding challenges, prepare evidence, and represent the council in hearings or appeals as required.
  • Prepare decision letters, reports, and briefings for applicants, stakeholders, and senior management.
  • Provide advice and training to housing staff on legal developments and review procedures.
  • Maintain accurate records and ensure databases are up-to-date.
  • Support fraud prevention and uphold the council’s equality, diversity, safeguarding, and climate policies.

Skills & Experience

  • Strong knowledge of housing law, homelessness legislation, and local housing policies.
  • Experience in conducting reviews, making statutory decisions, and handling sensitive cases.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently, manage workloads to statutory deadlines, and collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders.
  • Awareness of welfare, immigration, and social care issues.