Rent Officer

Description:

Hours: 37 hours per week
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:30pm
Start date: ASAP
End date: 26 October 2026
Checks required: Basic DBS and full DVLA licence check

### Overview

We're looking for an experienced housing professional to join the Housing Income Team. This role would suit candidates with experience as a Rent Officer, Housing & Income Officer, Tenancy Officer or Tenancy Sustainment Officer who are confident managing rent arrears, supporting tenants and, where necessary, progressing legal action.
The successful candidate will manage a portfolio of properties, maximise rental income, provide tenancy sustainment support and work proactively with residents to prevent arrears and homelessness.

### Key Responsibilities

Manage rent accounts for a designated housing patch.

Maximise rent collection through early intervention and arrears recovery.

Provide welfare benefits and income maximisation advice.

Support vulnerable tenants to sustain their tenancies.

Carry out home visits and tenant interviews.

Prepare court documentation and represent the client in possession proceedings.

Work closely with Housing Benefits, DWP, CAB, solicitors and the courts.

Set up and manage payment arrangements, Direct Debits and rent payment methods.

Deliver rent surgeries and provide tenancy advice to new tenants.

Maintain accurate records and performance information.

Coach and support junior team members where required.
### Essential Experience

Candidates should have:

At least 2 years' experience in social housing or a relevant customer-facing environment.
Around 3 years' experience in housing income, rent collection or arrears recovery.
Strong knowledge of welfare benefits and welfare reform.
Experience of tenancy sustainment and homelessness prevention.
Knowledge of housing legislation and rent recovery processes.
Experience preparing legal documentation and managing arrears cases.
Excellent record keeping, communication and customer service skills.
### Highly Desirable

Applicants with the following will be particularly strong:

Experience representing landlords in the County Court.
Experience obtaining possession orders, warrants and attending evictions.
Knowledge of PCOL (Possession Claims Online).
Experience managing complex complaints and safeguarding issues.
Experience working across multiple agencies to achieve positive outcomes.
### Candidate Profile

This role is ideal for someone who is:

Customer-focused and empathetic.
Confident handling difficult conversations.
Organised with excellent case management skills.
Resilient and able to manage a busy caseload.
Comfortable working independently and across multiple locations.
Passionate about helping tenants sustain their homes while protecting rental income for the client