Key Considerations Before Starting the Search for a Nanny-Housekeeper

A nanny-housekeeper can skillfully handle both childcare and housekeeping duties, with the focus on each area adjusted according to the client’s preferences.

What is the priority for your family?

1. A nanny can focus primarily on caring for your children, with household chores as a secondary responsibility.

2. For a balance between both tasks, remember that childcare should take priority, especially if you have small children, more than one and even more so if you live in a large residence.

   
   

Working Conditions:

If you’re looking for a live-in candidate, you may need to consider applicants from other European countries, as candidates already residing in Switzerland have their accommodations.

• What accommodation will you provide? At a minimum, a live-in nanny should be provided with a private, furnished bedroom, separate from the children’s room. Many live-in nannies also have access to a private bathroom, and in some cases, a separate kitchen and living space. It’s essential that your nanny has privacy during their time off.

• Above all, it’s crucial that your live-in nanny feels comfortable with the room and board arrangements offered as part of the role.

• Usually, live-in nannies will share meals with the family, especially if they do not

  have a separate kitchen, and will have access to your food.

• Specific rules or guidelines within your household: E.g.: Will they have a separate refrigerator, or share food storage in the family kitchen? Will they have access to your washer and dryer for personal laundry? Will she/he be able to use the backyard, pool, or other amenities during their time off?

• Number of hours per week. Full-time positions in Switzerland are 40-45 hours per week.

• Overtime: How often do you need assistance during the evenings or maybe on weekends?

  
  

 Salary offer:

Hiring a nanny-housekeeper in Switzerland can vary in cost depending on several factors; however, as a ball-point figure, the minimum wage in Geneva in 2024 for a 45 hr week is CHF 4742,4/month gross wage. Families also need to consider the social charges that amount to approximately 15% on top of the gross wage (ie CHF 5200/month total cost). Qualified candidates will usually have higher salary expectations.

These combination roles should reflect a fair balance of responsibilities and appropriate compensation, rather than expecting the full services of two roles for the price of one. Ensuring fair duties and a fair wage helps foster a positive working relationship.

Employer Obligations:

• Provide an employment contract

• Register as an employer

• Pay employer’s social insurance contributions

• Ensure accident insurance coverage

• Enrol the employee in a second-pillar pension scheme

• Deduct taxes if the nanny/housekeeper is liable for source tax (candidates with resident permits B, Temporary or Frontalier)

• Provide the payslips and the annual salary certificate

If you’re considering a combination position but are unsure of your specific needs, please feel free to reach out. We would be delighted to assist you!

Related information: Finding a Nanny in Switzerland: A Guide for Busy Parents

#goodpeople #nannyhousekeeper