Tips on Hiring Domestic Help

Before you Inteview

·          Make a list of exactly what you require to be done

·          Decide how often you want the help

·          Decide whether you want to be present when the tasks are being carried out

·          Decide what your budget is

·          Check your insurance policy – does it cover service persons in the case of injury, household breakages?  If not, consider revising it or asking helper if they have their own insurance.  Check that your contents cover will pay for theft without “violent entry”. Many policies will not.

 During Interview

·          Ask for 2 forms of ID.  One should have a photo and one should confirm their address;

·          Ask for copies of written references.  Ask if you can contact the referees.

·          Ask if they have a portfolio that you can view;

·          Ask if you can visit any completed projects – eg gardens

·          Agree a comprehensive list of tasks to be done

·          Tell them your standards and come to an agreement on how they will be met

·           Discuss confidentiality

·           Decide what to do if something gets broken or damaged

·          Agree on a course of action if you’re not happy with the work

·          Discuss who will be providing equipment and whether there are any addional charges to be taken into account

The service providers are self-employed.  However, if you pay the provider more than the PAYE threshold of £100 a week you will be classed as the provider’s employer and must register with the Inland Revenue

This will also have other implications such as you will be required to set up and operate PAYE, deduct national insurance and income tax contributions, pay holiday and sick pay, have employers liability insurance and a contract.  If you require any further information see www.hmrc.gov.uk or ask for clarification from the status officer at your tax office.