How to Choose the Best Maid Agency in Singapore
Not all maid agencies are the same. This guide shows you how to evaluate licensing, track record, pricing, after-sales support and service style, so you can confidently choose a trusted maid agency in Singapore for your family.
At a glance
When you choose a maid agency, you are not just paying for paperwork. You are trusting them to:
- Match your family with a suitable helper
- Explain costs and policies clearly
- Support you if issues arise during employment
This guide will walk you through practical steps to evaluate different agencies — including how Honest Recruiter approaches transparent pricing, digitalised processes and after-sales support.
Key factors to compare between maid agencies
Before deciding, take time to compare these important areas:
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Licensing and track record
Ensure the agency is properly licensed by MOM, and look at their history, awards and verified performance. -
Transparency of fees
A good agency provides clear, itemised quotations with no hidden charges — including agency fee, placement fee, insurance, medical, security bond and other costs. -
Quality of shortlisted helpers
Are the biodata and interview videos detailed and realistic? Do the suggested profiles actually match your needs, or do they feel generic? -
Replacement policy & after-sales support
Understand the guarantee period, number of replacements allowed and what happens if the match does not work out. -
Communication style
Is the agency responsive, patient and willing to explain? Or do you feel rushed, pressured or ignored? -
Digital convenience
Can you handle most things via WhatsApp, email and e-signatures, or must you keep visiting the office?
Step-by-step: how to shortlist and decide
Choosing a maid agency becomes easier when you follow a clear process instead of relying only on ads or price.
Clarify your needs and expectations
Before speaking to any agency, think about:
- Whether your priority is infant care, childcare, eldercare or housekeeping
- Your preferred nationality and experience level
- Your budget for salary and days off
- Whether you prefer a transfer helper or overseas helper
This helps you immediately see which agencies listen carefully and which ones simply push generic options.
Research and shortlist a few agencies
Look at:
- Their website, reviews and any verified performance data
- Whether they highlight clear fees and policies
- Whether they share practical guides and information (not just sales messages)
Shortlist a small number of agencies you feel comfortable with for a deeper discussion.
Speak with the consultant and ask targeted questions
During your first conversation, pay attention to:
- How clearly they explain the process, timeline and costs
- Whether they listen to your concerns or only push promotions
- How they describe their replacement and after-sales support
A good consultant should help you make an informed decision — not pressure you to pay immediately.
Review sample biodata and interview videos
Ask to see a few sample profiles. Consider:
- Are the biodata detailed, with clear work history and duties?
- Do the proposed helpers match your stated priorities?
- Do the video interviews feel genuine and unfiltered?
This gives you a sense of the agency’s pool of helpers and matching quality.
Compare quotations and policies in writing
Before confirming:
- Request a written breakdown of all fees
- Ask for the replacement and refund terms in writing
- Clarify what is included in the agency fee versus third-party costs
Never rely only on verbal promises — always refer to the signed agreement.
Questions to ask a maid agency before signing
Here are useful questions to ask so you can compare agencies more objectively:
1. About licensing and track record
- “Are you a licensed maid agency with MOM?”
- “Can you share your performance indicators or recognition?”
- “Do you specialise in any particular type of placements (infant care, eldercare, etc.)?”
2. About fees and payment
- “Can I have a full written breakdown of all fees?”
- “What is included in the agency fee, and what are third-party costs?”
- “When exactly do payments need to be made?”
3. About replacement and after-sales support
- “What is your replacement guarantee period?”
- “How many replacements are included, and what costs still apply?”
- “How do I contact you if there are issues after my helper starts?”
4. About matching and screening
- “How do you screen and brief helpers before recommending them?”
- “How do you ensure the helper understands my job scope and expectations?”
- “Will I be able to interview the helper directly before deciding?”
Red flags to avoid when choosing a maid agency
Be cautious if you notice any of these warning signs:
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Reluctance to put things in writing
If the agency is unwilling to document fees, replacement terms or promises, proceed very carefully. -
“Too good to be true” guarantees
Extremely cheap packages or unrealistic promises may hide important conditions or compromise on support. -
Pressure tactics
If you feel pushed to “decide now” or pay a deposit before you are ready, this is a red flag. -
Poor communication or slow responses
If communication is already difficult during the enquiry stage, it may be worse when problems arise later. -
Disrespectful attitude towards helpers
An agency that does not respect helpers is less likely to build sustainable, long-term matches for employers.
