Environmental Health Officer (Private Sector Housing)

• £34.20 per hour
• Office based- Hove, East Sussex (BN3)
• 37 hours per week
• Contract: September 2026 to February 2027

A local authority organisation is seeking an experienced Environmental Health Officer to join its Private Sector Housing team. This role focuses on improving housing standards, protecting public health, and ensuring private rented properties meet legal requirements.

The Role

You will be responsible for investigating housing complaints, carrying out property inspections, and enforcing housing legislation where required. The role involves working closely with landlords, tenants, and partner agencies to improve housing conditions and ensure residents live in safe and healthy environments.

Key duties include:

• Inspecting residential properties, including Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
• Assessing housing conditions using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
• Investigating complaints and determining appropriate enforcement action
• Drafting and serving statutory notices and other legal documentation
• Preparing cases for prosecution, civil penalties, appeals, and court proceedings
• Conducting risk assessments and producing detailed inspection reports
• Managing works in default and monitoring contractor performance
• Providing technical advice on housing legislation and property standards
• Supporting housing-related initiatives, projects, and improvement programmes
• Liaising with internal departments, landlords, external agencies, and stakeholders
• Maintaining accurate records and case management information

Requirements

To be successful, you will need:

• A degree, diploma, or equivalent qualification in Environmental Health
• Commitment towards EHORB registration (or equivalent professional accreditation)
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) or willingness to obtain
• Experience working within Private Sector Housing or a related Environmental Health function
• Strong knowledge of housing legislation, including the Housing Act and associated regulations
• Experience carrying out HHSRS assessments and housing inspections
• Knowledge of enforcement processes, legal proceedings, and evidence gathering
• Excellent report writing and communication skills
• Full commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and health & safety practices