Regulatory compliance officer apprenticeship

Here at Cheltenham Borough Council, we work on the principle that all residential properties should provide a safe and healthy environment for occupiers and visitors but for many renters this is not the case. While much of our rented housing is good, there is still a proportion which is substandard. Officers from our private sector housing team (PSH) including environmental health officers (EHOs), housing officers, and regulatory compliance officers all work together to ensure any housing hazards are removed and that landlords comply with their legal duties. Where they fail to do so we take action. 

Houses in multiple occupation (HMO’s), bedsits and flats where tenants must share facilities, can be hazardous places to live. For this reason, strict rules apply. Some HMO landlords will need a licence from the council. Officers from the PSH team inspect for legal compliance before issuing a licence.        

We also have responsibility for the licensing regime for camping, caravan and mobile homes sites.

Officers from the PSH team administer the disabled facilities grants which enable disabled people to live safely and independently in their own home by improving access to the property, providing stairlifts or adapting facilities such as bathrooms and bedrooms.

To find out more about the work our private sector housing team are involved with, visit our private housing web pages.

What previous apprentices say

As our first regulatory compliance apprentice, we can't share a direct experience but you can read on below to see what apprentices in other departments thought about their time with us.

Matt Groves, building control technician

"The degree apprenticeship in building control surveying has been a fulfilling experience, offering a blend of practical, on-site learning and academic study. Beginning my apprenticeship at Cheltenham Borough Council in 2021, I have been able to develop a solid foundation in construction technologies and the building regulations.

"Balancing full-time work and academic study has undoubtedly been challenging, but the apprenticeship has proven incredibly rewarding. The real-world application of my studies has deepened my understanding and significantly improved my skills in building control, which is evidenced through my promotion from apprentice to building control technician in 2024. This promotion was a direct result of my successful registration as a Class 2A domestic surveyor with the Building Safety Regulator, a milestone that I’m particularly proud of.

"The apprenticeship has not only provided me with invaluable professional experience but has also given me the confidence to take on more responsibility and grow within my field. It has provided me with a unique set of skills that I can continue to build on throughout my career in building control."

Hannah Smith, Marketing Cheltenham apprentice

“I would highly recommend an apprenticeship at Cheltenham Borough Council. I have received many opportunities to develop my skills, including training courses.

I have worked with a supportive team in a flexible environment, which has helped boost my confidence. I have enjoyed working in a role where I engage with local businesses and promote Cheltenham to visitors.”