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Hiring household staff.
A step-by-step guide.
A practical guide to hiring a nanny or housekeeper for the first time, from a rough idea to a supported start.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Start with a clear brief and realistic budget. Discuss relevant candidates, interview thoughtfully, agree the offer and employment arrangements, then prepare a structured first week.
1. Describe a normal week
List the help you need, your preferred working hours, location and intended start date. For childcare, include children’s ages and routines. For housekeeping, include the property, laundry and any specialist requirements. Separate essentials from preferences.
Think about school holidays, travel, pets and any changes already planned. If the job is live-in, describe the accommodation and off-duty arrangements. Our role comparison can help you choose a starting point.
2. Understand the budget and recruitment service
Discuss gross pay, relevant employer costs and the agency fee separately. Ask what is included in the recruitment service, when charges become due and which replacement conditions apply. A clear written quotation is better than relying on an informal estimate.
Use our nanny and housekeeper cost guides to prepare your questions, then read our fees and what’s included.
3. Look beyond a CV
Relevant experience is a starting point for a conversation. Discuss the candidate’s responsibilities in previous roles, working preferences and how their experience relates to your household.
Ask your consultant which references, qualifications and checks have been reviewed, what remains to be completed and what you need to verify as the employer. Our screening page explains the approach. Never assume that every possible check is covered by a general statement that someone is “vetted”.
4. Use the interview to explore the real job
Talk through an ordinary day and a challenging one. Ask how the candidate would organise priorities, communicate concerns and handle changes. Explain your expectations clearly and leave space for their questions.
Discuss hours, duties, pay, travel, privacy and any trial arrangements before work begins. A friendly meeting matters, but shared expectations matter just as much.
5. Agree the offer and prepare employment arrangements
Set out the proposed role, hours, gross salary, start date and any conditions in writing. Notify your consultant when an offer is made and accepted, and check the fee timing in your agreement.
For a direct hire, the household will usually be the employer. GOV.UK sets out responsibilities including employment documentation, right-to-work checks, payroll, insurance and applicable employment rights. Take advice about your circumstances and arrange the essentials before the start.
6. Make the first week useful
Prepare a simple induction: household routines, emergency contacts, equipment, agreed priorities and how to raise questions. Introduce the employee to the people they will work with and explain what a good first week looks like.
Schedule a short check-in early on. Small adjustments are easier to make when both sides know there is time to talk. Keep duties aligned with the agreed role, and discuss significant changes with your consultant.
Sources & further reading
GOV.UK: employing someone to work in your home
Sources checked 3 November 2026. Salary benchmarks retain the data period stated above. Employment guidance is general; check the current rules for your circumstances.
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