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Empleada de Hogar Interna

Spanish Live-in Housekeepers

DO YOU NEED A LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER IN SPAIN?

If you are seeking a live-in housekeeper in Madrid or anywhere accross Spain or Europe, CareHogar provides top-tier candidates with verified experience and reliable references.

AGENCY FEE AND GUARANTEE 

We guarantee the following in writing:

  • References verification with their current o former employers.

  • Up to 2 free replacements during the first year.

  • We operate on a success-based model.

Our fees for an live-in housekeeper placement  start at 500 € + VAT (one-time payment). This fee might increase depending on factors such as the employee's profile and job location

 

Request a no-obligation quote, to find out the exact cost. We offer a 10% discount for large families and seniors over 65 years old.

LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER: RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Social Security and Salary for Live-in housekeepers in Spain

The monthly Social Security cost for the employer to hire a live-in housekeeper in Spain is approximately 292 euros.​ 


The minimum wage (SMI) in Spain for 2024 is 1,134 euros per month, plus two additional annual payments. However, higher salaries are typically needed to retain the domestic worker effectively.

Labor Rights of Live-in Domestic Workers in Spain

If you are seeking a live-in housekeeper, it is crucial to understand the legal obligations that must be met to ensure the protection of both the employee and the employing family. 

In Spain, live-in housekeepers are governed by the Special Social Security Scheme and are entitled to specific labor rights, including 36 hours of weekly rest, two annual bonus payments, one month of paid vacation, food and lodging, as well as mandatory Social Security registration and a formal employment contract.


The responsibility lies with the employer to register the live in household staff in the Social Security office and ensure that the necessary contributions are made. These contributions provide essential benefits such as healthcare and retirement. Furthermore, a written employment contract is required, clearly defining the terms of employment, including salary, working hours, rest periods, and vacation entitlement of the live-in domestic worker.

​We can assist you with the necessary paperwork through our administrative provider, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

Vacation time is a key consideration for live-in housekeepers. According to the law, they are entitled to a minimum of 30 calendar days of annual leave, and it is advisable to plan these periods in advance to avoid any potential disruptions.​

Live-in Housekeepers Duties

​Their primary role is to assist with daily household tasks, which may include cleaning, cooking, laundry, and childcare. By residing in the family home, they offer a flexible service, adapting to the evolving needs of the family.

This employment type is particularly common in large cities like Madrid, where the busy schedules of families often require more comprehensive domestic solutions.

CareHogar specializes in finding the right live-in domestic staff for each household, ensuring that housekeepers are trustworthy and well-trained to perform their duties efficiently.​

PROS AND CONS OF HIRING A LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER

Hiring live-in domestic service provides with numerous benefits that can greatly improve a family’s quality of life. For example, live-in domestic staff can tackle tasks with flexibility and accommodate irregular schedules, making it ideal for families with unpredictable routines.

Having someone constantly present in the home also adds an extra layer of security, as the house is less likely to be left unattended.

However, this proximity and availability can also present some drawbacks. One significant issue is the potential loss of privacy. Sharing your home with another person may lead to a sense of intrusion into personal space, which could create tension if boundaries are not clearly established.

 

Another factor to consider is the associated costs. While the salary may be comparable to that of an live-out housekeeper, providing accommodation and meals adds an extra financial burden that families must budget for carefully.

It is important to weigh these benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. Every family has unique needs and circumstances, so it's essential to assess how a live-in housekeeper may affect your household dynamics and lifestyle.

TIPS FOR RETAINING A LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER

Once you have hired the live-in housekeeper, the next step is to create a positive work environment that fosters motivation and retention.

A key aspect is to establish open and honest communication. Encouraging the resident housekeeper to express any concerns or suggestions can help resolve issues before they escalate into larger conflicts.

Recognizing and appreciating the work of the employee is also essential for keeping them motivated. This can range from simple verbal acknowledgments to more significant gestures, such as a salary increase or a bonus for exceptional performance.

 

As with any job, employees who feel valued and respected are more likely to be committed to their work and to develop a lasting professional relationship.

LIVE-IN DOMESTIC SERVICE: FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Hiring a live-in housekeeper can significantly transform family dynamics by providing essential support for household management and enhancing overall quality of life. However, it is a decision that requires careful consideration to ensure the needs of both the family and the employee are adequately addressed.

By understanding the benefits, challenges, and legal obligations involved, families can make informed decisions and create a positive and harmonious work environment.

The relationship between the family and live-in domestic staff should be built on mutual trust and respect. Clear communication from the outset, outlining expectations and responsibilities, is essential to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a positive experience for both parties.

If you are seeking a live-in housekeeper in Madrid, elsewhere in Spain, or across Europe, partnering with CareHogar is an excellent way to find the right candidate for your home.

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