Disrepair Manager

Job Title: Disrepairs Manager (Contract to Perm)

Location: Croydon, London

Salary: £30 - £35 per hour (DOE)

Contract Type: 3-month contract with a view to permanent employment

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Disrepairs Manager to join our team in Croydon on a 3-month contract with a strong view to permanent employment for the right candidate. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the disrepairs process for a portfolio of social housing properties. This is a key role that will involve close collaboration with residents, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and effective resolution of disrepair issues.

Key Responsibilities:

• Disrepair Management:
  • Investigate and assess resident disrepair reports, including damp and mould, electrical faults, plumbing issues, heating problems, and structural defects.
  • Prioritise disrepairs based on urgency and severity, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation (e.g., Housing Act 2004).
  • Liaise with residents to schedule appointments, explain the repair process, and address any concerns or complaints.
  • Manage the entire disrepair process, from initial report to final resolution, ensuring timely and effective completion of works.
  • Monitor contractor performance, ensuring adherence to agreed timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
  • Conduct regular site inspections to assess the quality of repairs and ensure compliance with relevant building regulations.
  • Produce detailed reports on disrepair investigations, remedial works, and resident satisfaction.
• Contractor Management:
  • Manage relationships with external contractors, including scheduling appointments, issuing work orders, and monitoring performance.
  • Negotiate costs and ensure value for money for all repair works.
  • Resolve any disputes or disagreements with contractors promptly and professionally.
• Data Management:
  • Maintain accurate records of all disrepair reports, repairs carried out, and associated costs.
  • Utilise data analysis to identify trends and patterns in disrepair issues and implement preventative measures.
  • Ensure compliance with data protection regulations (GDPR).
• Client Liaison:
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with residents, ensuring excellent customer service at all times.
  • Communicate effectively with residents, keeping them informed of progress and resolving any concerns promptly.
  • Liaise with other departments within the organisation, such as housing management, legal services, and finance.
• Health and Safety:
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations on site.
  • Conduct site inspections to identify and mitigate any potential hazards.
  • Ensure that contractors adhere to health and safety best practices.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in a similar role, ideally within the social housing sector.
• In-depth knowledge of building regulations and relevant legislation (e.g., Housing Act 2004).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with residents and stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Full UK Driving Licence and access to own vehicle.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., Institute of Residential Property Managers (IRPM)).
• Experience in using housing management software.
• Knowledge of asbestos regulations and management.
• Understanding of landlord and tenant law.