Grade/Salary: ME9 - £39,519-£40,575 per annum
London Borough of Merton
Location: Civic Centre, Morden
Working arrangements: Hybrid working, with a minimum of three days per week in the workplace.
We are looking for a motivated and proactive Housing Supply Officer to join our Housing Supply team at the London Borough of Merton.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in helping households in housing need access suitable and sustainable accommodation within the private rented sector.
You will work closely with private landlords, letting agents and housing providers to identify and secure accommodation opportunities, promote the Council's housing initiatives and develop positive working relationships that support our homelessness prevention and relief duties.
You will also work alongside colleagues across Housing Needs to match households to suitable properties, assess affordability and support the successful establishment and sustainability of tenancies.
As a Housing Supply Officer, you will:
Proactively engage with landlords, letting agents and housing providers to identify and secure private rented accommodation.
Promote the Council's accommodation procurement initiatives and available financial assistance schemes.
Negotiate with landlords and agents to secure suitable and affordable housing opportunities.
Assess properties for suitability, safety and compliance with relevant housing legislation.
Work closely with Housing Options and Temporary Accommodation teams to support households moving into private rented accommodation.
Provide advice and guidance on affordability, welfare benefits, Universal Credit and Housing Benefit.
Support landlords and tenants to resolve issues and sustain successful tenancies.
Maintain accurate records, monitor outcomes and contribute towards service performance targets.
We are looking for someone who is organised, confident and able to build effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders.
You will have experience of working in housing, homelessness or a related field, alongside an understanding of the private rented sector and the challenges faced by households seeking accommodation.
You will also demonstrate:
Strong communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills.
An understanding of housing legislation, tenancy requirements and property standards.
Knowledge of welfare benefits, housing affordability and their impact on accessing accommodation.
The ability to manage competing priorities, work independently and meet deadlines.
A proactive, solution-focused approach to overcoming challenges.
A commitment to delivering excellent customer service and supporting positive housing outcomes.
At Merton, you will be part of a team working to make a meaningful difference to residents facing housing difficulties.
You will have the opportunity to develop relationships across the private rented sector, contribute to housing supply initiatives and play an important role in helping households secure suitable, sustainable accommodation.
If you are enthusiastic about housing, enjoy building relationships and want to make a positive impact, we would welcome your application.