Private Rented Sector PRS Lettings & Affordability Officer

Job Description Apply fast, check the full description by scrolling below to find out the full requirements for this role. Private Rented Sector (PRS) Lettings & Affordability Officer London Borough of Richmond & WandsworthLocation: Bridas House, Wandsworth (Fully office-based)Contract Type: TemporaryHours: 36 hours Mon to Fri (09:00:AM - 05:00:PMPay Rate: £20.76 per hour PAYE / £27.07 per hour Umbrella About the Role In this critical front-line role, you will support households at risk of homelessness by sourcing, securing, and negotiating access to high-quality and affordable private rented sector properties. You will work directly with clients, landlords, and agents, ensuring placements are sustainable, safe, and financially viable-particularly for those relying on Universal Credit. A key objective of the role is to help reduce the local authority's reliance on Temporary Accommodation, supporting long-term stability for households while achieving targeted reductions in temporary housing expenditure. You will also contribute to wider strategic initiatives linked to the council's Temporary Accommodation Reduction Strategy, helping to shape future approaches to procurement, homelessness prevention, and private sector engagement. Top 3 Essential Skills Demonstrable experience assessing Universal Credit affordability Experience working within a local authority setting Experience sourcing and moving clients into private rented sector accommodation Key Responsibilities Source and Secure Private Rented PropertiesIdentify suitable, affordable housing options within and outside of the borough, ensuring placements meet required standards and are financially sustainable for clients. Prevent and Relieve HomelessnessSupport clients in line with statutory duties, offering tailored solutions that promote housing stability and reduce risk of homelessness. Universal Credit Affordability AssessmentsConduct detailed assessments to ensure affordability and sustainability of tenancies for clients in receipt of Universal Credit. Tenancy Sustainment and AdviceProvide clients with practical guidance on budgeting, housing costs, and financial solutions to maintain long-term tenancies. Landlord and Agent EngagementBuild and maintain strong relationships with landlords, agents, and partners, negotiating terms and promoting the council's services. Contribute to Strategic Housing InitiativesSupport project work relating to temporary accommodation reduction and private sector access. Legislative ComplianceOffer accurate, up-to-date advice aligned with current housing legislation, including the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, and ensure placements are suitable and compliant. Customer Service & MediationProvide excellent customer service, resolving disputes and supporting positive outcomes for both clients and landlords. Property Health & SafetyIdentify and report property condition or safety concerns, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations. Essential Skills, Knowledge & Experience Strong understanding of Universal Credit, housing affordability, and financial assessments Proven track record of working in a local authority housing environment Experience placing tenants into private rented sector accommodation Excellent communication, relationship-building and negotiation skills Ability to meet and exceed performance targets Knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, suitability assessments, and statutory requirements Experience sustaining tenancies and advising on alternative financial solutions Confidence liaising with diverse stakeholders including clients, landlords, agents, and support services Good understanding of property health and safety requirements Ability to deliver high-quality customer service and mediate to resolve issues effectively How to Apply If you have the skills, experience and passion to make a meaningful impact in the housing sector, Adecco would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and contact details to begin the application process. Adecco acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer. xbpsjku By applying for this role your details will be submitted to Adecco. Our Candidate Privacy Information Statement explains how we will use your information - please copy and paste the following link in to your browser