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Published on 20 Jun 2025 by Fern L.
Hiring a domestic helper is an important decision, and choosing the right agency to assist you can make all the difference. While there are many reputable agencies in Singapore, unfortunately, not all operate with integrity or in your best interest or the helper’s. Whether you're a first-time employer or looking to change agencies, it's essential to know the red flags that signal a less-than-reliable agency.
Here’s what to watch out for when selecting an agency to hire your helper.
1. Unusually low fees or “too good to be true” offers
If an agency offers deals that seem too good to be true, such as extremely low placement fees or guarantees of “perfect” helpers, approach with caution. These tactics can sometimes hide hidden charges, unethical practices, or underqualified helpers. Transparent pricing and clear breakdowns of fees are signs of a trustworthy agency.
2. Lack of transparency in contracts and processes
Reputable agencies should clearly explain all employment terms, including salary, rest days, medical benefits, and levy payments. If the agency is vague or avoids answering questions about the hiring process, contract terms, or helper’s rights, this is a major red flag.
3. Poor treatment or misinformation given to helpers
Ethical hiring should go both ways. If the agency doesn’t treat helpers respectfully during interviews or pressures them into contracts they don’t fully understand, it reflects poorly on their practices. Some agencies may even mislead helpers about their job scope, working conditions, or salary, putting you at risk of misunderstandings and future conflict.
4. No follow-up or post-hiring support
A reliable agency provides support even after the helper is placed in your home. If your agency disappears once the contract is signed and fails to assist with onboarding, mediation, or renewals, it may not have your or the helper's long-term success in mind.
5. Unlicensed or not accredited by MOM
Always verify that the agency is licensed and accredited by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Using an unlicensed agency is risky and may result in legal and financial consequences. You can check the license status of any agency on MOM’s official website.
6. High replacement rates
If the agency frequently replaces helpers within short periods, it might indicate poor screening, inadequate training, or misrepresentation during the matching process. Ask the agency about their success rate and how they handle replacements.
7. Debt-bonded helpers or hidden placement fees
Some agencies charge hefty placement fees to the helper, trapping them in debt for months. These unethical practices can lead to stress, poor performance, or even early termination. Choose agencies that advocate for fair employment and don’t put helpers in debt from day one.
Choose better. Choose Ministry of Helpers
At Ministry of Helpers, we believe that ethical hiring starts with transparency and trust. That’s why we’re partnering with carefully selected, trusted maid agencies in Singapore that uphold fair practices and are fully licensed by the Ministry of Manpower.
Through our platform, employers can now connect with reputable agencies that do not charge placement fees to helpers, promote debt-free employment, and offer reliable post-placement support. From browsing helper profiles to managing contracts and schedules, we make the hiring process simpler, smarter, and more ethical for everyone involved.
Are you an agency that shares our values? Partner with us to grow your reach and reputation. Ministry of Helpers provides the tools, visibility, and support to help ethical agencies succeed in today’s digital world.
Hiring a domestic helper is an important decision, and choosing the right agency to assist you can make all the difference. While there are many reputable agencies in Singapore, unfortunately, not all operate with integrity or in your best interest or the helper’s. Whether you're a first-time employer or looking to change agencies, it's essential to know the red flags that signal a less-than-reliable agency.
Here’s what to watch out for when selecting an agency to hire your helper.
1. Unusually low fees or “too good to be true” offers
If an agency offers deals that seem too good to be true, such as extremely low placement fees or guarantees of “perfect” helpers, approach with caution. These tactics can sometimes hide hidden charges, unethical practices, or underqualified helpers. Transparent pricing and clear breakdowns of fees are signs of a trustworthy agency.
2. Lack of transparency in contracts and processes
Reputable agencies should clearly explain all employment terms, including salary, rest days, medical benefits, and levy payments. If the agency is vague or avoids answering questions about the hiring process, contract terms, or helper’s rights, this is a major red flag.
3. Poor treatment or misinformation given to helpers
Ethical hiring should go both ways. If the agency doesn’t treat helpers respectfully during interviews or pressures them into contracts they don’t fully understand, it reflects poorly on their practices. Some agencies may even mislead helpers about their job scope, working conditions, or salary, putting you at risk of misunderstandings and future conflict.
4. No follow-up or post-hiring support
A reliable agency provides support even after the helper is placed in your home. If your agency disappears once the contract is signed and fails to assist with onboarding, mediation, or renewals, it may not have your or the helper's long-term success in mind.
5. Unlicensed or not accredited by MOM
Always verify that the agency is licensed and accredited by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Using an unlicensed agency is risky and may result in legal and financial consequences. You can check the license status of any agency on MOM’s official website.
6. High replacement rates
If the agency frequently replaces helpers within short periods, it might indicate poor screening, inadequate training, or misrepresentation during the matching process. Ask the agency about their success rate and how they handle replacements.
7. Debt-bonded helpers or hidden placement fees
Some agencies charge hefty placement fees to the helper, trapping them in debt for months. These unethical practices can lead to stress, poor performance, or even early termination. Choose agencies that advocate for fair employment and don’t put helpers in debt from day one.
Choose better. Choose Ministry of Helpers
At Ministry of Helpers, we believe that ethical hiring starts with transparency and trust. That’s why we’re partnering with carefully selected, trusted maid agencies in Singapore that uphold fair practices and are fully licensed by the Ministry of Manpower.
Through our platform, employers can now connect with reputable agencies that do not charge placement fees to helpers, promote debt-free employment, and offer reliable post-placement support. From browsing helper profiles to managing contracts and schedules, we make the hiring process simpler, smarter, and more ethical for everyone involved.
Are you an agency that shares our values? Partner with us to grow your reach and reputation. Ministry of Helpers provides the tools, visibility, and support to help ethical agencies succeed in today’s digital world.