Job Description

Company Overview

Social Housing Options is a fast-growing consultancy helping councils, landlords, and letting agents solve real-world housing and homelessness challenges. With over 66% of working private renters struggling to afford rent -- and rising eviction rates -- we help clients manage rent arrears, prevent homelessness, and reduce the burden on temporary accommodation services.

Our work sits at the intersection of

law, housing, and social impact

, and we're looking for a Head of Legal (Consultant) to help shape and manage the legal framework that powers our casework.

Summary

We are looking for an experienced legal consultant to act as our

in-house legal authority

on all property-related matters. This is not a traditional solicitor role - it's

part strategic advisor, part hands-on legal lead

, helping us manage complex cases involving rent arrears, evictions, possession claims, and property compliance.

You will work closely with our triage team and external caseworkers, advising on:

Legal routes available for resolving landlord and agent disputes Reviewing and overseeing Section 8 & Section 21 processes Drafting or reviewing tenancy-related documents and possession paperwork Supporting negotiations between tenants and landlords Helping us build a knowledge base and legal playbook for frontline staff
.

Key Responsibilities

Act as the senior legal authority for property and housing matters Provide expert guidance on evictions, arrears, possession claims, and legal risks Review and approve all legal documents produced internally or by partners Support high-risk or legally complex client cases Train and upskill non-legal staff on core legal processes and risks Ensure compliance with the Housing Act, Homelessness Reduction Act, and other legislation Collaborate with case managers to guide legal strategy on live files

What We're Looking For

Qualified solicitor or legal executive with

5+ years' experience

in property, landlord & tenant law, or housing litigation In-depth understanding of

Section 8, Section 21, PCOL, bailiff instructions, and rent arrears

Experience working with or for

local authorities, housing associations, or private landlords

Comfortable working in a fast-moving, start-up-style environment Passionate about housing justice and practical problem-solving.

Bonus Points For

Previous work in homelessness prevention, housing law charities, or supported housing Experience in drafting legal content for guides, SOPs or training Familiarity with DHP, UC, and welfare-related legal considerations
Pay: 40.00-75.00 per hour

Additional pay:

Bonus scheme
Benefits:

Work from home
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

This role is offered strictly on a self-employed / consultancy basis. You will be responsible for managing your own tax, invoicing, and working on a project basis.
Do you confirm that you understand and accept these terms?

This role requires hands-on legal experience in property law, specifically dealing with evictions, Section 8 notices, and possession claims. Do you have direct experience managing legal matters related to evictions? We are looking for someone who has experience leading a legal team or department, with the ability to create systems and processes for managing casework efficiently. Do you have experience building and leading legal operations or casework teams?
Work Location: Remote