Reviews and Visiting Officer

Housing Reviews and Visiting Officer

At Sevenoaks District Council, join our Housing Options and Solutions team as we work directly with residents across the district to prevent homelessness, support vulnerable individuals, and ensure the Council meets its legal duties under housing legislation.

• Assist with homelessness reviews under Section 202 of the Housing Act 1996 and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, including investigations and gathering evidence.
• Keep applicants informed of progress on their homelessness reviews within statutory timescales.
• Carry out accommodation suitability and property condition assessments, considering affordability, overcrowding, location, and risk of violence.
• Visit customers in a range of settings, including hospitals, to support safe and timely discharge planning.
• Provide high‑quality housing advice, mediation and realistic housing options to individuals and families at risk of homelessness.
• Support Housing Advice Officers by verifying applicant details, recording findings from visits, and making clear recommendations.
• Maintain accurate, timely case notes and records on Council databases.
• Identify safeguarding concerns and ensure vulnerable adults and children are referred to the right services at the right time.
• Detect and report suspected fraud and liaise with internal teams such as Benefits, Legal and Fraud.
• Work collaboratively with internal services and external partners, including Private Sector Housing and voluntary agencies.
• Participate in the duty rota and work occasional evenings or weekends where required.

• Knowledge of housing legislation and guidance, particularly the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and Housing Act 1996.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and mediation skills, including ability to manage challenging or emotional situations.
• A strong commitment to customer care and achieving positive outcomes for residents.
• Confidence working independently in the community, including undertaking lone visits safely.
• Strong organisational skills with meticulous attention to record keeping and deadlines.
• IT literacy, including ability to use databases and Microsoft Office applications.

• Not Applicable

• Contract

• Other

• Government Administration

We’re proud to be a high-performing local authority that values innovation, collaboration and people‑first service. You’ll join a team that cares deeply about its work and is committed to learning, development and continuous improvement. You’ll be supported to make decisions, take initiative and grow your career in housing.

You’ll join a dynamic and forward‑thinking team delivering services that matter. Every day is different, and the impact you’ll have on people’s quality of life is immediate and rewarding.

We are one of the few local government authorities to hold Platinum Investors in People accreditation – our commitment to supporting and developing you is genuine and ongoing.

• Enhanced annual leave of 28 days (excluding bank holidays)
• Additional leave after 5 years of service
• Opportunities to join social activities
• Free parking
• Employee benefits including discounts on shopping, travel, days out and more
• Tusker car salary sacrifice scheme and discounts with your MOT
• Access to BUPA Employee Assistance Programme, a free, 24/7, confidential counselling and wellbeing support service

For an informal discussion about this role, please contact:
Stephen Tring: st,

Closing date:
Sunday 18 January 2026

Interview date:
Wednesday 28 January 2026