Job Title: Rent Officer
Location: Hybrid working (2 days office-based, 3 days from home)
Contract: Initial 12-week assignment
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Rate: £25 Umbrella
The Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Rent Officer to manage rental income across a defined housing portfolio. You will play a key role in maximising income collection, preventing tenancy failure, and supporting residents to sustain their tenancies through early intervention and proactive engagement.
This is a hands-on role requiring strong knowledge of rent recovery, welfare benefits, and legal processes, alongside excellent communication and customer-focused skills.
Key Responsibilities
Manage rent accounts and take timely action to prevent and reduce arrears
Deliver effective income collection and recovery in line with legislation and policy
Provide advice on welfare benefits and support tenants to maximise income
Prepare court documentation and represent the organisation in possession proceedings
Carry out home visits, interviews, and rent surgeries within the community
Work closely with internal teams and external partners including benefits services and support agencies
Identify and refer vulnerable tenants for appropriate support to sustain tenancies
Maintain accurate case records and performance data using housing IT systems
Support service improvement initiatives and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement
About You
Minimum of 2 years' experience in a rent recovery, income, or housing management role
Strong working knowledge of welfare benefits and welfare reform
Experience of legal action relating to rent arrears, including court attendance
Methodical, organised, and confident managing complex caseloads
Customer-focused with the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally
Comfortable working independently and as part of a wider housing team
Willing to travel locally and undertake home visits as required
Desirable
Housing-related qualification (or working towards one)
Experience working within a local authority or social housing environment
Involvement in service or process improvement projects
