Allocations Officer

Marks Consulting Partners are currently looking for an Allocations Officer to work with one of our Local Authority clients in Middlesex.

What the Job Will Be Doing

• Managing a caseload of housing applications from initial assessment through to property allocation
• Assessing applications in line with the Housing Act 1996 (Part VI), Allocations Policy and relevant legislation
• Determining eligibility, banding and priority for applicants on the Housing Register
• Shortlisting and nominating applicants through the choice-based lettings process
• Managing the allocation of both permanent and temporary accommodation in line with policy
• Carrying out verification checks, including income, residency, immigration status and supporting documentation
• Assessing medical, welfare and overcrowding cases, obtaining specialist advice where required
• Providing housing advice to applicants, explaining allocation decisions and review rights
• Liaising with Housing Officers, Lettings Teams, Homelessness Services and external partners to ensure timely allocations
• Maintaining accurate records on housing management systems and ensuring statutory timescales are met
• Responding to enquiries, complaints and member enquiries in a professional and timely manner

What You Will Need

• Experience working as an Allocations Officer within a Local Authority or Housing Association
• Strong knowledge of Housing Act 1996 Part VI and housing allocations legislation
• Experience assessing housing applications, banding and determining eligibility
• Knowledge of choice-based lettings and housing register management
• Experience using housing management systems such as Locata, Jigsaw, NEC, Northgate or similar
• Ability to manage a busy caseload and work to performance targets
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to make fair and robust decisions
• Experience working with vulnerable households and complex housing cases is desirable