Disrepair Case Officer

Description:

MMP Consultancy is seeking x5 highly organised Disrepair Case Officers at £300pd on behalf of a Local Authority based in south London. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced housing professional to play a key role in protecting the Council from disrepair claims, ensuring residents receive high-quality services, and helping to resolve issues before they escalate into legal action.

Candidates will be required in the office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with the rest of the days of the week at home.

As a Disrepair Case Officer, you will manage a varied caseload, work closely with surveyors, contractors and legal services, and ensure that residents' concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.

The successful candidate will be responsible for minimising the risk, incidence and cost of disrepair claims against the Council. You will act as the key point of contact for disrepair cases, managing them from initial complaint through to resolution, and representing the Council where necessary.

Key Responsibilities

Manage disrepair cases to minimise risk and reduce legal and financial exposure to the Council.
Resolve complaints and legal threats wherever possible before they progress to litigation.
Monitor case progress, costs and potential liabilities, providing regular updates and recommendations to management.
Ensure high-risk cases are escalated appropriately and reported to the Repairs Team Manager.
Liaise with Legal Services and supply information to meet court and procedural deadlines.
Work closely with internal and external surveyors to ensure repairs are ordered and completed promptly and to the required standard.
Ensure compliance with procurement procedures and relevant Council policies.
Represent the Council in court proceedings when required.
Provide advice and support on Stage 2 complaints, Ombudsman complaints and repairs complaints involving potential litigation.
Maintain regular communication with residents, keeping them informed throughout the case process.
Respond to correspondence within agreed timescales.
Support colleagues across the service and provide cover where required.
Promote compliance with legislation relating to data protection, health and safety, equality, diversity and financial regulations.
Contribute to safeguarding responsibilities for vulnerable children and adults.
Work collaboratively across departments and with external partners to achieve positive outcomes.

Requirements:

Good understanding of current issues affecting local authorities, ALMOs and social housing.
Knowledge of housing and building legislation and current best practice.
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and housing management systems.
Experience responding to complex correspondence and preparing reports.
Experience managing contractors and consultants.
Experience dealing directly with customers, resolving issues and providing advice in challenging situations