Q: How much should I pay a domestic helper?

I live in Johannesburg, and am about to employ a domestic helper to help clean my house on a one day per week basis. How much should I pay her?

Domestic helpers must not be paid less than the minimum wages set out annually by the Department of Labour in terms of Sectoral Determination 7. The minimum amount that you’d be required to pay her depends on two things:

• Her place of employment;
• The number of hours per week that she’s required to work.

A domestic worker employed in Johannesburg and working one day per week would be entitled to earn no less than R13,39* per hour.

*Applicable from 01 December 2015 to 30 November 2016

Note: You should also appoint your housekeeper with a written domestic worker’s contract of employment.

Please note that this information is supplied for general information and does not constitute legal advice. It is advisable for you to contact a legal practitioner for guidance in respect of your unique requirements.