Considerations to make before employing a FDW
As our nation develops and grows more affluent and our lives get increasingly busier due to hectic work schedules, deadlines to meet and presentations to give. And by the time work ends, we barely have enough time and energy to expend much less household chores. Getting a maid is no longer a luxury, but more of a need.
With the help of a reliable maid, you are able to concentrate and focus more of your time and energy at work, while leaving the stress of housework and elder care or child care to your foreign domestic worker (FDW).
Well, all that is not unfounded. However, before you actually head off to your recommended maid agency to start hiring a maid, here are some considerations that you will like to make.
The first area to consider would cost – with an additional pair of helping hands, it is inevitable that will come with some costs as well. In this section, we will look at how much it costs to hire a maid in Singapore in general.
Apart from the one-time fees such as the agency fee and FDW insurance, other recurring fees include:
–FDW monthly salary
Salary differs for new-to-Singapore candidates and Experienced candidates.
Contact us to find out more.
–Monthly Levy
At the time of writing, the non-concessionary rate for levy is $300.00 per month and $60.00 for concessionary rate. Click here to find out if you qualify for the concessionary rate.
–FDW upkeep
This includes meals and toiletries for your maid. In addition, the additional utility bills for more a higher consumption and medical fees (if required).
–FDW 6-monthly Medical Examination (6ME)
All maids in Singapore have to undergo a compulsory biannual medical screening. These screenings may be done at most clinics. Do check if your nearby clinic provide the service.
More information can be found here.
Now that you have closely studied the financial aspects and it seems feasible to proceed to hiring a helper, it will also be worthwhile to consider the intangibles and other areas too:
-Additional member
With the FDW residing in your home, there is effectively another member in your household. Make sure you are comfortable with it.
–Sufficient Space
Do ensure that you have sufficient space for your helper to rest comfortably. Click here on guidelines for accomodation.
-Managing and caring for your worker
To ensure a harmonious working relationship, it is important to manage your worker well, and show care and concern for your maid’s well being.
Click here to find out more on managing and caring for your worker
After evaluating all the various aspects, you decide that you would like to proceed to employ a maid for your household.
The next step is to take the compulsory Employer’s Orientation Programme (EOP) and to look for a reliable maid agency that you can trust. Often, people with go with their friends or family’s recommended maid agencies.
We have compiled a quick guide on how to navigate through the process of hiring a maid in Singapore which you can find here.