Disrepair Surveyor

6 Month Contract With a local Authority

Job Purpose

To provide expert surveying and technical support to the Housing Disrepair Team, ensuring that housing defects, dampness and other property-related issues are thoroughly investigated, appropriately remedied and managed in accordance with relevant legislation, standards and professional requirements. The role will act as an Expert Witness where required, producing robust technical evidence and supporting the Council in resolving complex disrepair cases, protecting resident safety and managing financial and legal liabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough property inspections and produce accurate, evidence-based reports compliant with CPR 35 requirements.
  
• Manage a weekly caseload of at least three disrepair surveys and associated reports.
  
• Undertake detailed technical investigations into complex building defects, including dampness, mould, mechanical ventilation and psychrometric conditions.
  
• Use appropriate specialist equipment and surveying techniques to identify the causes of defects and determine suitable remedial solutions.
  
• Prepare technical specifications, bills of quantities and contracts for remedial works, ensuring solutions are cost-effective and proportionate.
  
• Manage complex reactive repairs and capital works from initial investigation through to completion and sign-off.
  
• Monitor repair progress, variations and post-inspection requirements, maintaining accurate records on relevant internal systems.
  
• Provide technical advice and evidence to support the resolution of housing disrepair claims and avoid unnecessary litigation.
  
• Work with council insurers, assessors and other stakeholders to support the assessment and agreement of settlement figures.
  
• Manage and monitor repair costs and budgets, including the effective use of Schedule of Rates (SOR).
  
• Maintain clear, professional and empathetic communication with residents, contractors and internal teams.
  
• Adopt a resident-centred and trauma-informed approach when dealing with residents, particularly where cases involve prolonged or complex housing issues.
  
• Ensure compliance with the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), Awaab’s Law and relevant housing and building legislation.
  
• Ensure all surveying and repair activities comply with Health and Safety at Work legislation, CDM, COSHH and DDA requirements.
  
• Maintain accurate technical records, inspection findings, photographic evidence and case documentation.
  
• Provide clear technical evidence and professional opinions where acting as an Expert Witness.
  
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and contractors to identify innovative and effective solutions to complex property issues.
  
• Promote high standards of service delivery and contribute to continuous improvement within the Housing Disrepair Team.
  

Requirements

• Minimum HNC in Building Studies, Construction or an equivalent relevant qualification.
  
• Professional membership of a relevant professional body such as RICS, CIOB, CIEH, CABE or IOSH.
  
• Minimum of 2 years' professional experience in housing disrepair surveying, ideally with experience acting as an Expert Witness.
  
• Proven practical experience applying the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
  
• Detailed knowledge of housing disrepair legislation, housing standards and relevant legal protocols.
  
• Strong working knowledge of CPR 35 and the Practice Direction relating to Expert Witness reports.
  
• Knowledge and understanding of Awaab’s Law and its application to dampness and mould cases.
  
• Experience investigating dampness, mould, ventilation and other complex building defects.
  
• Ability to identify the root cause of property defects and recommend appropriate remedial solutions.
  
• Experience preparing specifications, bills of quantities and/or schedules of works.
  
• Experience managing reactive repairs, capital projects, variations and post-inspection sign-offs.
  
• Good understanding of health and safety requirements, including CDM, COSHH, DDA and relevant workplace legislation.
  
• Proficient in using handheld technology, mobile surveying applications and PC-based property or case management systems.
  
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, accurate and defensible technical reports.
  
• Confident dealing with difficult or sensitive conversations and able to build effective working relationships with residents and stakeholders.
  
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage a demanding caseload and meet deadlines.
  
• Ability to work independently, exercise professional judgement and provide evidence-based recommendations.
  
• Commitment to inclusive, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory working practices.
  
• Demonstrates the values of being proud, ambitious, pioneering, open and accountable, proactive and inclusive.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Hackney Council / Housing Disrepair Team
  
• Bi-Weekly payments
  
• Full Time