Household Help

Many teachers take advantage of the reasonable cost of live-in or day house cleaners in Colombia (US$ 230.00 to $250.00 equivalent per month or US $10 to $15 per day). It is best to hire through references at the school or trusted neighbors. Further information about house cleaners and Colombian labor laws concerning them is available at the school through Olga Nunez. However, keep in mind the following:

  • Hire only with references from someone you know (i.e. someone at the school). Whatever the references, BE CAREFUL the first few months – do not leave valuables lying around.
  • Keep track of all payments to your employee, and have them sign for all payments received.  You may also consider having them sign a job contract.
  • You have to provide health insurance, disability insurance, and a retirement fund for your maid.  The cost is around US $75 a month and may be split between people if sharing a maid.
  • There is a minimum wage in Colombia which must be respected when hiring a maid, including a Cesantia and Prima (2 extra months) once a year.  The current minimum wage is about US $250 a month.  Transportation must also be given, about US $ 33 a month.  Finally, she legally receives 15 work days of paid vacation each year.
  • As well, you have to buy her three uniforms a year, including shoes.
  • Ask your house cleaner about her background, family, etc. before and after hiring; write it down in case you need to find her.  Make a copy of her cedula and keep it.
  • Finally, when you fire your house cleaner, make sure that they sign a “Paz y Salvo,” stating that they have received all payments and benefits owed to them. This will avoid legal problems.
  • PLEASE pay your maid through your vacations and through the summer (unless you’re not coming back).  We are paid 12 months of the year; they should be paid 12 months, too.  If you plan on letting your maid go and not employ her when you return in August, she should be paid all that is due to her for the time of her contract; asking her to receive no pay during vacations and return to work for you when you come back is not fair.  During this time, you can ask her to pick up mail, pay bills, water plants, keep the house or apartment looking “lived in” to avoid robbery, etc.