Nanny contract
The contract between you and your nanny needs to have enough detail, so that it is clear what is expected from both parties. It should also be taken pretty seriously in terms of what terms and conditions are included. You will need a contract to protect your best interests as an employer, your nanny will also need one, so they can feel secure in their employment. It’s important to note that contacts once signed by both parties are legally binding. However, you don’t need a lawyer in order to make a contract binding, it should just be clear, straightforward, fair and signed. The role of a lawyer will ensure that nothing key has been omitted. If you have an unusual set up with your nanny, it might be a good idea to have a lawyer look over what you have drafted. However, for most everyday straight forward agreements if you feel confident feel free to draft your own. Allow your nanny the opportunity to give feedback on the terms. Remember you are the employer and it is your discretion as to what can be negotiated, keep the needs of your family in mind.
Start by outlining the duties you would like your nanny to carry out. For example, child care times, days, preparing meals, after school activities, school runs, duties around the house etc. Next think about the benefits and perks that you will offer. This can include salary details, overtime payments, holiday time, sick pay, and any other benefits or perks that you will personally offer as the employer. Trial periods, confidentiality, notice periods and contract termination should also be included.
Other key areas need to be included also which relate to the living conditions are:
- Expenses: do you expect your nanny to contribute towards using utilities. Or is this included as part of a benefit?
- If your nanny is required to carry out duties that may need transport, will this be provided by you?
- Are overnight guests allowed? What are your rules around visitors and personal relationships?
- It seems like an unusual thing to think about however, drinking alcohol, drugs, smoking and habits that people have as human beings need to be addressed. What will and will you not allow in your home? Is there a designated place where smokers can go?
- Breaks for lunch and rest time.
- Also think about her integration with your family. For example, is your nanny expected or allowed to eat with you? Will they need to purchase their own food? Can they make use of your kitchen storage space or will you provide a separate area to store food?
- If your nanny is not working or has time off however the child(ren) need or want her attention what will happen? Is or is she allowed to decline their demands for attention?
Your nanny will be living in your home, and at times probably will feel like a member of the family. Keep in mind however, that you are the employer try to keep the living situation professional as well as friendly.