Landlord and Compliance Specialist
Location: Somerset
Hourly Rate: £290 per day (Umbrella)
Hours: Full-time (Contract: 3+ months)
Contract: Temporary
Job Overview:
Somerset Council is seeking an experienced and dedicated Landlord and Compliance Specialist to ensure the safety and regulatory compliance of our housing stock. You will provide expert technical guidance on property safety matters including asbestos, water safety, and radon, overseeing compliance across over 6,000 council-owned buildings. Your role will be vital in maintaining the safety of residents, managing contractor relationships, and supporting the council's commitment to high standards of property safety.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead on asbestos management, water safety, and radon compliance activities across the council's housing stock, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
- Manage and develop a team of operational staff and external contractors to deliver safe and compliant services.
- Oversee contracts for asbestos removal, surveys, water hygiene, and remediation projects, ensuring work is carried out safely and efficiently.
- Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance documentation (surveys, testing, certification) is up to date and readily accessible.
- Develop digital channels and customer-facing portals to improve service access and reduce demand.
- Provide expert advice and support to internal teams, elected members, and external regulatory bodies.
- Monitor performance against SLAs and reporting requirements, including asbestos management reports to SMT and committees.
- Manage a budget of approximately £500,000, deploying resources effectively to meet objectives.
- Support policy development and internal audits, and assist with procurement processes.
- Conduct site visits as needed to oversee works and ensure safety protocols are followed.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Extensive experience in property safety compliance, particularly within social housing environments.
- Relevant professional qualifications such as NEBOSH, NEBOSH General Certificate, P405 (Asbestos), P901 (Water Hygiene), or equivalent.
- In-depth knowledge of legislation, regulations, and best practices related to landlord property safety.
- Proven experience managing teams and external contractors effectively.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret large data sets and generate actionable insights.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to produce clear reports and liaise confidently with stakeholders.
- Ability to work flexibly, including site visits, and manage multiple priorities effectively.
Additional Requirements:
- Membership of IOSH, BOHS, or other relevant professional bodies (desirable).
- Project management qualifications such as Prince2 (desirable).
- Experience working within local government or the social housing sector (highly advantageous).
- A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for occasional site visits.
- Ability to work remotely while maintaining effective oversight of compliance activities.
Why Join Us:
- Competitive daily rate of £290 (Umbrella).
- Flexible working arrangements with the opportunity for remote work and site visits.
- Play a crucial role in safeguarding residents and ensuring compliance across Somerset's housing stock.
- Be part of a dedicated team committed to community safety and high standards of property management.
