Our client, a housing association, is looking for a Rent and Service Charge Accountant to join them in Norfolk on an interim basis. The role is responsible for the accuracy and integrity of rent and service charge accounting, making sure income is calculated, billed, reconciled and reported correctly across the housing stock.

You will oversee the annual rent setting and service charge processes, from budgeting and apportionment through to year-end reconciliation and tenant statements. The position suits an experienced finance professional who is comfortable working independently, managing deadlines and explaining complex charges clearly to colleagues in housing and finance.

The successful candidate will bring sound technical knowledge of social housing finance, good judgement and a methodical approach. This is a hands-on assignment where your experience will be put to work from the outset.

Main responsibilities

Manage the accounting for rent and service charge income, including regular reconciliations and the control of related ledger accounts

Lead the annual rent setting process in line with regulatory requirements and the rent standard

Prepare service charge budgets, estimates and year-end reconciliations, including the apportionment of costs across schemes and properties

Produce service charge statements and support the resolution of related queries and challenges

Monitor income, arrears and variances, and prepare clear management reports and commentary

Work with housing, asset management and other teams to make sure charges are accurate and costs are correctly allocated

Support month-end, year-end and audit processes, including the preparation of working papers

Maintain and improve the accuracy of rent and service charge data held in housing and finance systems

Make sure processes and controls comply with relevant legislation, regulation and internal policies

Provide guidance and support to colleagues on rent and service charge matters

Requirements

A recognised accountancy qualification (CIMA, ACCA, ICAEW, CIPFA or equivalent), or part qualified with relevant experience

Relevant experience in rent and service charge accounting, ideally within a housing association or other social housing provider

Sound knowledge of social housing rent setting, service charge principles and related regulation

Experience preparing service charge budgets, apportionments and year-end reconciliations

Strong analytical skills, with the ability to explain financial information to non-finance colleagues

Experience supporting month-end, year-end and audit processes

Competence with housing and finance systems and advanced Excel

Good organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to work to deadlines

The ability to work in Norfolk

The offer

An interim role based in Norfolk

Duration and rate to be confirmed with candidates

If you are an experienced rent and service charge accountant looking for an interim assignment in Norfolk, this role offers a clear scope and a defined focus within social housing finance. Apply below.