Clear house rules are the foundation of a smooth and respectful working relationship between employers and domestic helpers. Without proper guidance, even the most experienced helper may struggle to adapt to your household’s unique expectations.
At Humanskills Employment Agency, we believe in empowering employers to create fair, firm, and respectful boundaries right from the start. Here’s how to set effective house rules for your new helper:
1. Start Early—Ideally on Day One
Your helper needs structure from the very beginning. Setting rules early avoids confusion and helps her feel more secure in her role.
Tip:
Don’t wait for problems to arise. Go through your house rules during her first day, preferably in a calm and welcoming tone.
2. Write Down Your Rules Clearly
Verbal instructions can be forgotten or misunderstood. A written set of house rules ensures clarity and gives your helper something to refer to. Common topics to cover:
- Daily routine and tasks
- Meal times and food handling
- Rest times and bedtime
- Use of phone and Wi-Fi
- Off-day arrangements
- Privacy (e.g., no entering bedrooms without permission)
Tip:
Keep the rules simple and respectful. You can type them out and place a copy in her room.
3. Be Clear About Phone Usage
One of the most common areas of conflict is mobile phone use during working hours. Address this upfront to avoid misunderstandings.
Tip:
Set specific times when phone use is allowed (e.g., during breaks or after work). Explain that phone use should not interfere with duties.
4. Explain Boundaries Around Personal Space
Make it clear which areas of the house are private, and how to respect the family’s privacy. Your helper may not know your expectations unless told.
Tip:
For example: “Please do not enter the master bedroom without permission,” or “Knock before entering any closed door.”
5. Set Guidelines on Food Preparation and Meals
Your helper may come from a different cultural background, so it’s important to explain:
- What food she can eat or cook for herself
- When meals are usually served
- If certain food items are restricted
Tip:
Ask about her food preferences too—especially if she has dietary restrictions.
6. Define What’s Not Allowed
Be clear about non-negotiables like:
- Inviting guests over
- Taking photos of your home
- Leaving the house without permission
- Sharing your family’s personal information
Tip:
Phrase rules firmly, but kindly: “For safety reasons, please don’t leave the house without informing us.”
7. Review and Adjust Over Time
As your helper settles in, you might realise certain rules need tweaking—or that she needs reminders.
Tip:
Schedule a monthly check-in to give feedback and review the rules together. This keeps things on track and shows you’re open to improvement on both sides.
Final Thoughts
Setting house rules isn’t about being controlling, it’s about creating a respectful and safe environment for everyone. When rules are clear, your helper can focus on her duties without second-guessing, and you’ll enjoy a smoother, more cooperative relationship.
At Humanskills Employment Agency, we provide both employers and helpers with tools for success from pre-employment advice to aftercare support. We’re always here to help you manage the journey with confidence.
