Housing interview prep

What roles are targeted in housing services in Sutton?

Housing Options Officer, Housing Officer Assistant, Homelessness Prevention/Housing Advice roles, Council housing/allocations/tenancy support.

What are the basic housing laws you need to know?

Housing Act 1996 (Part 6 & 7), Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.

What is included in real-life casework thinking?

Assessing urgency, gathering facts quickly, making fair, evidence-based decisions, writing clear case notes.

What communication skills are essential in housing roles?

De-escalating angry clients, explaining legal decisions in plain English, managing vulnerable people.

What administrative skills are required for housing services?

Accurate record keeping, GDPR compliance, understanding CRM systems.

What is the goal for Phase 1 (Foundations) from now to Aug 2026?

Build knowledge and confidence in housing law basics and understand homelessness process.

What is the focus during Phase 2 (Skills Building) from Sept to Nov 2026?

Mock case assessments, writing clear decisions, practicing interview answers.

What are key scenarios you should practice weekly for housing roles?

Assessing homelessness status, prioritizing housing duties, determining safeguarding responses.

What types of interview questions can you expect in housing interviews?

Behavioral questions about dealing with difficult individuals and housing-specific questions regarding homelessness assessment.

How can candidates stand out in housing roles?

Write structured notes, show balance in empathy and evidence-based decisions, and know safeguarding basics.