About the Role

The client is seeking an experienced Income Officer (Court) to join the Housing Resident Services Division on a temporary basis to provide maternity leave cover. This role is responsible for managing rent arrears, maximising rental income, supporting residents to sustain their tenancies, and representing the Council in county court possession proceedings.

The successful candidate will have extensive experience in income recovery, court representation, tenancy sustainment, and welfare advice within a social housing or local authority environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of rent arrears accounts.
• Maximise rental income and prevent tenancy failure.
• Represent the Council in County Court possession hearings.
• Prepare legal documentation and maintain accurate case records.
• Visit tenants and provide income maximisation and welfare advice.
• Work with Housing Benefit, DWP, Social Services, and internal teams to resolve tenancy issues.
• Attend evictions when required.
• Meet income recovery and customer service targets.

Essential Requirements

• Experience managing rent arrears within a local authority or social housing environment.
• Strong knowledge of income recovery legislation and tenancy enforcement procedures.
• Proven experience representing landlords in County Court possession proceedings.
• Experience preparing legal documentation relating to rent arrears cases.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to support vulnerable residents and promote tenancy sustainment.
• Experience working with Housing Benefit, DWP, Social Services, and other partner agencies.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage a busy caseload and meet deadlines.
• Confident using housing management and case management systems.