Housing manager
Housing managers are involved in providing and managing people’s homes. They often work for local authorities or housing associations.
Their tasks include dealing with tenancy agreements and breaches; overseeing property exchanges; inspecting properties to check they are in a decent state; assessing people who apply for housing; and providing advice on benefits and welfare. Increasingly, the job can also involve initiating and managing policies to tackle antisocial behaviour.
Did you know?
Around one-third of the UK population lives in rented accommodation.
Facts and Figures
- Starting salary:
Around £16,000-£19,000 as a trainee, rising to £22,500-£26,000 with experience.
- Senior level salary:
Top housing managers can earn £50,000 or more.
- Education:
A career in housing management is open to graduates from any discipline. However, the following subjects are considered particularly relevant: housing; facilities management; land, estate and property management; urban studies; planning; business management; politics; government; public and social administration; economics; sociology, and law.
- Skills:
You'll need to be someone who is comfortable dealing with members of the public and have good communication skills. Routes into housing management vary. The emphasis is on personal skills such as customer care and an interest in work with a social value. Training is available as you progress in your career.
- Likely employer type:
Housing associations, local authority housing departments and Arm’s Length Management Organisations (ALMOs), housing trusts and co-operatives, voluntary organisations.
- Number of professionals:
The Chartered Institute of Housing has over 21,000 members working mainly in local authorities, housing associations, Arm’s Length Management Organisations and in the private sector in the UK and overseas.
Meet a housing manager
Helpful links
- Chartered Institute of HousingQualifications and training in housing management
- National Housing FederationRepresents housing associations and has information about housing policy and good practice
- Tenant Services AuthorityGovernment agency which regulates registered social landlords
- AssetskillsThe Sector Skills Council for the places in which we live and work - advises on qualifications and skills
