A good house help contract protects both of you. In Kenya, any employment longer than three months must be in writing. Keep it simple, write it in a language she reads comfortably, and give her a signed copy.
Contract checklist
- Names, ID numbers and phone numbers of both parties
- Job title (nanny, house help, house manager) and start date
- Live-in or live-out, and the home's location
- Duties, in plain words (for example: care for two children aged 1 and 4, cook lunch and supper, laundry)
- Working hours and the weekly rest day
- Monthly salary (at least the minimum wage), pay day and how it is paid (M-Pesa or cash with a receipt)
- Deductions: NSSF, SHIF and Housing Levy
- Annual leave, sick leave, public holidays and maternity or paternity leave
- Probation period (up to six months) and notice: 7 days during probation, 28 days after
- Accommodation and meals, if live-in
- House rules: visitors, phone use around children, use of the car, safety rules
- How disagreements will be raised and handled
- Signatures and date
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Quick answers
Is a written contract required for a house help in Kenya?
Yes, for employment that lasts longer than three months. It should cover pay, hours, duties, leave, rest days and notice.