How to employ a housekeeper?

Kayce

Hi all,

I am looking to get a housekeeper in once a week, to take care of the cleaning and bits around the house. I'm wondering how I can protect myself insurance wise and legally? Do I need to register as an employer? Would my house insurance cover if sth got broken by a housekeeper or in case of theft?
Or is it best to just go over a service provider?

Thanks,
Kayce

Eggs For Dinner

Your house insurance will usually cover your liability towards your housekeeper. As for theft (and malicious damage), there is usually an exclusion for these actions by anyone lawfully on the premises. Other covers, such as accidental damage or water damage etc would be the same as if you caused them

Addle

For just 1 day a week, I think you'd save a lot of time and money by going through an agency.

Victor

There are agencies that you can use to cover the employment side. You could ask that you be given a specified person each week, not just whoever they have to hand.

Tiddlypeeps

99.9% of people who offer these kinds of services are either self employed or work for an agency. From your perspective it's basically the same as bringing in a plumber, electrician or any other type of service. You aren't their employer you are just paying for a service.

Kayce

Thats great, thanks everyone!