Maid Agency Checklist: 14 Questions to Ask Before Signing

Hiring a domestic helper is basically signing up for a 2-year (or longer) live-in relationship with a stranger who'll be cooking your bak kut teh, minding your kids, and possibly hearing you argue with your spouse about whose turn it is to take out the rubbish. So before you slap down a deposit at any maid agency along Peninsula Plaza or Lucky Plaza, you'd better ask the right questions. Here's what you need to know before committing.

This maid agency checklist covers the 14 questions that separate a smooth hiring experience from a $5,000 headache. We've grouped them into pricing, credentials, scope of work, and contract terms — the four areas where things most commonly go sideways.

Pricing Questions: Where the Real Costs Hide

1. What's the total cost, broken down line by line?

Agencies love quoting a headline figure like "$1,800 all-in" then hitting you with add-ons. A good answer breaks down agency fee, biodata/interview costs, medical check-up ($30-$60), work permit application ($35), security bond, insurance, and levy (currently $300/month for first-timers, $60/month with the Foreign Domestic Worker Levy Concession if you have young kids or elderly at home). Walk away if they can't itemise this on the spot — vague pricing means vague accountability later.

2. How much is the agency fee versus the helper's placement/loan repayment?

For a first-time transfer helper, expect total agency-related costs of $300-$800. For a fresh helper straight from source country (Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines), total costs including loan deduction can hit $2,000-$3,000, often deducted from her salary over 6-8 months. This isn't illegal, but you should know upfront how much she'll actually take home monthly during that period.

3. What happens if the helper doesn't work out within the first few months?

Ask specifically about the replacement guarantee period — reputable agencies offer 3-6 months of free replacement if things don't gel. Some heartland agencies near Toa Payoh or Ang Mo Kio only offer 1 month, which is stingy given how long it takes to properly assess fit.

Credentials and Track Record

4. Is the agency licensed by MOM, and can I verify it?

Every legit agency has a license number displayed and searchable on MOM's website. If they're cagey about this, that's your cue to head for the exit — no questions asked.

5. How many years has the agency operated, and do they specialise in certain nationalities?

An agency that's been around since your BTO was still a construction site (10+ years) usually has better vetting processes than a pop-up that opened last quarter. Also ask if they specialise — some agencies are strong with Filipino helpers for English-speaking households, others focus on Indonesian helpers for elderly care.

6. Can I see reviews or speak to past clients?

A confident agency will happily share testimonials or even connect you to a past client living in your neighbourhood — say, someone from the same condo in Bukit Timah. If they dodge this, take it as a red flag.

Scope of Work: Get Specific

7. What exactly will the helper be doing daily?

Spell out cooking, cleaning, childcare, eldercare, and pet care separately. Helpers aren't obligated to do heavy renovation cleaning or car washing under MOM rules, so clarify expectations before she arrives, not after.

8. Does she have experience with my specific needs — infant care, elderly with dementia, or a household with pets?

A good agency matches based on actual experience, not just availability. If they're pushing whoever's