Contracts, compliance, tax obligations, DBS checks, right-to-work, insurance, and everything you need to know before hiring your first member of staff.
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or employment advice. Employment law is subject to change. Always seek professional advice for your specific circumstances. Current as at Q1 2026.
Employing household staff in the UK comes with significant legal obligations. Before you begin the hiring process, you need to understand the fundamentals. Getting these wrong can result in substantial penalties.
Source: GOV.UK Employer's Guide to Right to Work Checks (Feb 2025); HMRC Employer Registration Guidance
Irving Scott has placed over 500 household staff since 2013. Let us handle the complexity while you find the perfect team.
