Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) are not covered by the Employment Act, as it is not practical to regulate aspects such as working hours and work on public holidays.
For this reason, it is strongly encouraged that you sign an employment contract with your helper. A clear, legally compliant contract sets expectations, protects both parties, and helps avoid disputes.
Why a Contract Matters
Reliable record
- It documents the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of both parties.
Formal agreement
- It sets out terms and conditions in writing.
Legal compliance
- With the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulating MDW employment, contracts help ensure you meet legal requirements and safeguard both employer and helper.
Domestic helpers (MDWs) are not covered by the Employment Act, which makes a written contract even more important. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) strongly encourages clear contracts (see MOM guidelines for employing domestic helpers) to protect both sides.
Benefits of having a contract include:
- Setting clear expectations for both parties.
- Providing legal protection and compliance with MOM regulations.
- Helping to prevent disputes between employer and helper.
If you’re considering hiring without formal paperwork, check out Hiring Helper Without Agency: Is It Worth the Risk?
What to Include in the Contract
Salary
- State the agreed monthly salary.
- Indicate the payment method (bank transfer is recommended).
- Specify the due date each month.
Placement Loan
- Include details of any placement loan repayment arrangements.
Rest Days
- Your helper is entitled to one rest day per week.
- Both parties must mutually agree on the designated day.
Compensation in Lieu of Rest Day
- If your helper agrees to work on her rest day, you must pay her at least one day’s salary in addition to her basic pay.
- She must have at least one mandatory rest day per month that cannot be compensated away.
- Employers who fail to provide this may face enforcement action.
Health and Well-Being
Accommodation
- Adequate shelter from sun, rain, and wind.
- Basic amenities: mattress, pillow, blanket, bathroom facilities, and toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
- Sufficient ventilation; provide a fan if natural airflow is inadequate.
- Safety: no sleeping near dangerous equipment or structures.
- Modesty: no sharing a room with a male adult or teenager.
- Privacy: ideally, provide a separate room; otherwise, ensure adequate space and privacy.
Meals
- Provide three meals a day at suitable times.
- Be mindful of her dietary or religious restrictions (e.g. no pork, halal food, vegetarian needs).
- Do not force her to eat food she is uncomfortable with.
Notice Period
- Either party may terminate the contract by giving the agreed notice period.
- If notice cannot be given, the terminating party must pay salary in lieu of notice.
Common Mistakes Employers Make Without a Maid Contract
Without a written maid contract in Singapore, employers often face unnecessary problems. Salary or payment terms can become ambiguous, leading to disputes. Some employers also fail to provide proper rest days or adequate meals, which may result in enforcement action from MOM. Verbal agreements, while convenient, cannot be legally enforced and may cause misunderstandings.
Learn more about things to consider before you hire a maid in Singapore.
Conclusion
While not legally mandated under the Employment Act, a written employment contract is essential. It provides clarity, ensures compliance with MOM regulations, and fosters a fair and respectful working relationship between employer and helper.
Let Human Dynamics simplify the process of hiring a maid in Singapore. From household chores to childcare and elderly care, our team will match you with a reliable helper who suits your family’s needs.
👉 Reach out to us today! Visit humandynamics.sg or call +65 8075 4131 to get started on a smooth and stress-free maid placement journey.
