Lead Multi-trade Operative – Damp and Mould

We are looking for an experienced Lead Multi-trade Operative – Damp and Mould to join our Housing Repairs service.

Reporting to the Team Leader, you will lead the investigation, diagnosis, remediation and resolution of damp, mould and condensation (DMC) cases across the Council's housing stock.

You will play a key role in identifying and addressing the root causes of damp and mould, protecting residents from potential health hazards and ensuring cases are managed in line with the Council's Damp and Mould Policy, Awaab's Law, HHSRS, the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 and Housing Ombudsman recommendations.

What you'll be doing

• Investigate reported repairs and damp and mould cases, identifying structural, environmental, mechanical or operational causes.
• Identify the root cause of DMC and specify appropriate remedial work.
• Assess and prioritise damp and mould hazards, escalating cases involving vulnerable residents, significant health risks or Category 1 hazards.
• Carry out trade work and associated ancillary work required to complete repairs effectively, including making good, plastering, insulation and other relevant works.
• Make repair and replace decisions in line with Council policies and standards.
• Liaise with residents, Repairs Planners, operatives, contractors and other services to coordinate repairs and follow-on works.
• Oversee the quality of repairs and programmes delivered by operatives and third-party contractors.
• Undertake post-inspections to ensure root causes have been addressed and repairs provide a sustainable solution.
• Check the quality of your own and colleagues' work and challenge poor-quality workmanship where required.
• Provide clear advice to residents regarding investigations, findings and proposed remedial actions.
• Work with Compliance, Tenancy Management, Planned Works, Building Safety and external specialists to achieve sustainable resolutions.
• Support legal disrepair cases, Ombudsman investigations and regulatory enquiries by providing accurate technical information and evidence.
• Monitor repeat cases and identify recurring defects and opportunities for preventative action.
• Maintain accurate records, including photographs, inspection notes, moisture readings, risk assessments, case notes and repair outcomes.
• Ensure regulatory and performance information is recorded accurately to support compliance with Awaab's Law and other requirements.
• Ensure resident contacts and outcomes are recorded to an appropriate standard.
• Support the Team Leader and deputise when required.
• Support the induction and on-the-job training of colleagues and apprentices.

Damp and Mould Compliance

You will be responsible for ensuring that damp and mould cases are:

• Investigated thoroughly and managed within statutory and corporate timescales.
• Risk assessed in accordance with HHSRS.
• Appropriately escalated where vulnerable residents or significant risks are identified.
• Supported by accurate evidence, including photographs, moisture readings and inspection records.
• Managed in accordance with relevant legislation, regulatory expectations and Council policies.
• Resolved with a focus on addressing the underlying cause rather than simply treating the symptoms.

About you

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Strong multi-trade practical skills and experience within a housing repairs environment.
• Experience investigating and resolving damp, mould and condensation issues.
• The ability to identify root causes and specify appropriate remedial works.
• Good knowledge of health and safety requirements and safe working practices.
• The ability to assess risk and recognise when issues need to be escalated.
• Experience checking and quality assuring the work of colleagues or contractors.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and statutory timescales.
• Good communication skills and a strong commitment to resident satisfaction.
• The ability to maintain accurate electronic records and use a PDA or similar technology.
• A proactive approach to identifying improvements and reducing repeat repairs.
• The ability to work independently while supporting colleagues and working effectively as part of a wider team.

Resource Management & Continuous Improvement

You will be expected to:

• Use materials, plant, vehicles and equipment responsibly and cost-effectively.
• Ensure appropriate materials and plant are available to complete repairs.
• Maintain and safely use equipment and materials issued to you.
• Complete daily vehicle safety checks and maintain the vehicle appropriately.
• Identify opportunities to improve ways of working, reduce repeat damp and mould cases and improve resident outcomes.
• Support the ongoing development of damp and mould processes in response to legislative and regulatory changes.

What success looks like

• Damp and mould cases are investigated and resolved within required timescales.
• Root causes are correctly identified and addressed.
• Repairs are completed right first time wherever possible.
• Repeat damp and mould cases are reduced.
• Work meets required quality and safety standards.
• Records and evidence are accurate and complete.
• Residents receive clear communication and a satisfactory service.
• Cases comply with HHSRS, Awaab's Law and relevant regulatory requirements.

Benefits

We value our employees and are committed to ensuring that they enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding career with us. We understand that a happy and motivated workforce is essential for the success of our organisation. That is why we offer a wide range of employee benefits to enhance your work-life balance, financial wellbeing, health, and professional development.  Here’s a comprehensive overview of the fantastic benefits we provide: 

• Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
• 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff. 
• Generous Holiday Entitlement – increasing with length of service (for non-casual roles).
• Hillingdon Sports & Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Salary Sacrifice Schemes – option to join schemes for cycle purchase, electric vehicle leasing and additional voluntary pension contributions (subject to scheme rules).
• Cycle to Work – Eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.
• Local Government Pension Scheme