Hiring a maid for the first time? These are 7 things to consider before you start your search
Over the years, household helpers formally addressed in Singapore as Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) and commonly known as maids, have become an integral part of managing households in Singapore. Before you start shortlisting biodatas, here are a few basic but very important factors to keep in mind.
- The EOP
Mandatory for all first-time employers to undergo, the Employer’s Orientation Programme (EOP) is a 1.5-hour online course that can be completed either in person or online. Introduced by the Singapore government to educate potential employers on the rules and regulations governing the hiring of maids, the course also provides useful insights such as tips on tackling common maid issues.
- Salary for your maid
The salary of a maid mainly depends on her experience and skills. While there is no fixed minimum salary set by the Singapore government, most employers pay a basic salary (excluding any leave compensation) between $400 and $800. Nationality also plays a big part as some embassies in Singapore have indicated a minimum wage for their workers.
- Off days / rest days
From 1st January 2013, maids working in Singapore are entitled by law to weekly off days, i.e. 4 or 5 Sundays in a month. Both helpers and employers are expected to come to a mutual agreement on the number of leave days to be taken and sign an employment contract. Employers who are unable to give any of the rest days are to compensate their maids on a per day basis. It is also possible to change the number of rest days given - either more or less - at a later point of time during the course of their contract, as long as there is written agreement between both parties.
- Monthly levy
The maid levy is a compulsory monthly fee payable to the Singapore government for every maid working in your house. Currently, the levy is at $300 per month for the first maid and $450 for every additional maid. For Singaporeans with children less than 18 years and/or elderly above 65 years of age, the Singapore government provides a concessionary rate on the levy at $60 per month per maid.
- Appropriate, Reasonable Food & Accommodation
In Singapore, food and accommodation has to be provided by the employer. A minimum of three sufficient meals which follows a balanced diet is to be provided. Inadequate food is a common complain raised by maids in Singapore, and is a leading factor in premature termination of contracts. Employers must remember that most maids coming from developing countries may have different dietary habits and consume different proportions of food. Most maids are too shy to voice out their demands on food, thus employers are encouraged to have a discussion with their maid about her food preferences during the hiring process to avoid conflicts, and to maintain an open communication about the changing needs of the maid.
It is not permissible for a maid to reside outside independently or at any unauthorized addresses. The maid can only reside at her place of work that is listed on her work permit card. Employers who are not able to provide a separate room for their maids due to space constraints must ensure that the maid is agreeable to sharing a room or sleeping in the common area. A mattress, pillow, and blanket must be provided at a private sleeping area. Also, a minimum of 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every day is to be allowed to the maid. If the job-scope of the maid is more tedious, employers are encouraged to allow a longer sleeping time, or provide rest time in between their working hours.
- Toiletries
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has indicated that basic toiletry items for the FDW, defined as any item necessary for daily living, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, sanitary pads, etc, are to be provided by the employer to their maids. Some maids may prefer to purchase items of a particular brand which may be more expensive, and in such cases, employers may ask their helpers to purchase on their own. It may also be good to draw an agreement on mutual understanding on what is to be provided by the employer.
- Medical Expenses
All medical expenses including dental treatments for a maid are to be borne by her employer. Since medical and dental treatments are expensive in Singapore, it is crucial for employers to choose a good insurance plan that covers everything including outpatient medical costs and dental treatments.
With this information, you are ready to start hiring! Search our extensive database of biodata and contact us for a friendly chat.
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