OR111969 - PRS Lettings Negotiator (SO2) - Housing

Client: London Borough of Lambeth

Location: 6 Brixton Hill, London, Lambeth, SW2 1RW, United Kingdom

Work Pattern: 1/2 days office based - 7 hours per day

PAYE Pay Rate: £23.51 per hour

Main Purpose of the Role

To secure suitable and affordable private rented accommodation for people in housing need. The role involves building relationships with landlords, negotiating rents, matching tenants to properties, and supporting tenants to successfully start and maintain their tenancy.

Typical Day

• Contact landlords and letting agents to find suitable properties.
• Negotiate rents, incentives and payments to secure properties.
• Inspect properties to check they are safe and suitable.
• Match available properties with suitable tenants.
• Arrange and accompany property viewings.
• Support tenants with Universal Credit/Housing Benefit applications.
• Advise landlords and tenants on their responsibilities.
• Keep accurate records and update IT systems.
• Work with Housing Needs colleagues and other council services.
• Deal with landlord, tenant and customer enquiries.
• Attend landlord forums, meetings and promotional events.

Key Skills & Responsibilities

• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with landlords and tenants.
• Good understanding of the private rented sector and housing needs.
• Ability to assess properties and identify health and safety issues.
• Good customer service and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organization and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work to deadlines.
• Confidence dealing with vulnerable customers.
• Good IT and administrative skills.
• Understanding of confidentiality, data protection and council procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a wider team.

Essential Requirements / Qualifications

• Experience working in housing, homelessness, private renting, lettings or a similar customer-focused service.
• Experience of negotiating with landlords, agents or other stakeholders.
• Good knowledge of private rented sector processes and tenancy requirements.
• Understanding of housing benefit/Universal Credit and affordability issues.
• Ability to carry out property inspections and identify potential risks.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Good level of IT literacy.
• Ability to work flexibly and manage a varied workload.
• Commitment to equality, safeguarding and supporting vulnerable people.

A relevant housing qualification or professional experience in housing/lettings would be desirable.