Hiring a maid is one of the most personal decisions a family makes. You are inviting someone into the heart of your home, trusting them with your belongings, your children and your daily routine. Yet for most families in India, the process has historically relied on word-of-mouth and gut feeling — neither of which is a substitute for proper verification.
Why verification is non-negotiable
A 2024 survey by the National Domestic Workers Federation found that fewer than 12 % of domestic workers had undergone any form of formal background check before being hired. This is a striking gap given that domestic helpers have access to your home around the clock.
At a minimum, every hire should include:
- Aadhaar verification — confirms identity and address
- Police verification — checks for criminal history at the local station
- Reference check — a call to the previous employer, ideally two
Understanding salary norms in 2026
Salaries vary significantly by city, work type and working hours. Here is a rough guide for full-time live-out maids:
- Metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore): ₹12,000 – ₹18,000/month
- Tier-2 cities (Lucknow, Jaipur, Bhopal): ₹7,000 – ₹11,000/month
- Part-time (2–4 hrs/day): ₹3,000 – ₹6,000/month
Live-in maids typically receive accommodation and meals in addition to a monthly salary of ₹8,000 – ₹14,000 depending on the city.
The trial period
Always begin with a paid trial of 7–15 days. Use this period to assess punctuality, attention to detail, how the helper interacts with children or elders, and whether they respect boundaries. Be clear about your expectations on day one — write them down if needed.
Legal requirements for employers
Under the Unorganised Workers Social Security Act, employers are encouraged to register domestic workers and provide basic social security. In some states (e.g., Karnataka) it is mandatory to register household help with the local labour authority. Always keep a copy of the helper's Aadhaar and one recent photograph.
Using a placement agency vs. a platform
Traditional placement agencies charge 1–2 months' salary as commission and provide limited recourse if a hire does not work out. Digital platforms like MyHelperIndia verify every profile before it goes live and offer free replacement support if needed — making them the safer, more cost-effective choice for most families.
Checklist before your helper starts
- Collect Aadhaar copy and sign a simple work agreement
- Clarify weekly off, festival leaves and advance policy
- Show them where cleaning supplies, keys and emergency contacts are
- Introduce them to all family members and any pets
- Set a date for the first salary review (typically after 3 months)
