Eight questions to ask any maid agency before you hire
The difference between a placement agency and a phone number with a fee is in the answers to eight questions. Ask all of them — of us too — before you pay anything.
1. What exactly do you verify, and when?
A good answer names the checks — identity, Aadhaar, police records, a skill test — and says they happen before you see a profile. “All our staff are verified” with no detail is not an answer.
neato: identity and Aadhaar verification, police verification records where available, a skill check and a documented profile, all before a candidate is recommended.
2. What happens if they leave or do not suit us?
Ask how many replacements, within what time, and on what conditions. A replacement promise without terms is not a promise.
neato: replacement assistance is recorded in your booking confirmation, with its number, timeline and conditions.
3. What is the salary, and who pays it?
Get the monthly salary for your shift length in writing before anyone starts, and ask whether you pay the staff member directly or through the agency.
neato: the salary for every priced role is published on the website and in the app.
4. What is your fee, and when is it due?
The agency’s fee is separate from the salary. Ask how much, what it covers, and whether any of it is refundable if the placement does not start.
neato: the service fee is separate from the salary and depends on the engagement; it is explained before you confirm, and raising a request costs nothing.
5. What will I receive in writing?
At minimum, the staff member’s profile and a document recording the salary, hours and terms. If an agency gives you nothing on paper, you have nothing to hold them to.
6. How do you match?
An agency that matches on hours, locality, household size and specific needs will ask you about them. One that sends whoever is free will not ask anything.
neato: the request form asks the same questions as the app — hours, pincode, staff preference and the details specific to the role.
7. Who do I call after day one?
Most problems start in the second week, not the first day. Ask who you speak to then, and how.
neato: our support team by phone, WhatsApp or email — the details are on our contact page.
8. Will you help with police registration?
Registering household staff with the local police is the employer’s step, but a good agency will tell you how and give you the documents you need.
Hire with the terms agreed up front
The request takes under a minute and asks exactly what the app asks. No account, no payment up front — our team calls you back with matched, verified profiles.