Silks Insight: Employing vs. Self-Employed – What’s Right for Your Household?

Here at Silks Luxury Lifestyle, we’re often asked about the difference between employing household staff directly and taking on someone who is self-employed. It’s an important distinction – and understanding it properly can help you make the right decision for your household and your family’s unique needs.

So, let’s break it down and answer some of our most frequently asked questions.

What’s the difference?

Employed domestic staff work for one household, usually under a contract of employment. This outlines their hours, duties, and salary. They are part of your team, and you manage their workload day-to-day.

A self-employed worker, on the other hand, typically offers services to several clients. They set their own schedule, decide how and when they’ll carry out their work, and operate as an independent business.

Quick guide: employment vs. self-employment

A worker is usually employed if they:

• Work regular hours for you

• Can’t send someone else to do the job

• Follow your instructions on when, where, and how to work

• Can be moved between tasks

• Are paid a regular wage

• Receive overtime or bonuses

A worker is typically self-employed if they:

• Choose their own hours

• Can send someone else in their place or bring in help

• Use their own tools or equipment

• Work for multiple clients

• Quote fixed prices for jobs (regardless of time spent)

• Take responsibility for fixing any issues at their own expense

Why choose to employ?

There are some great benefits to employing your household staff directly:

• A tailored recruitment process – When you employ through a professional agency like Silks, we help you find the right person, not just someone available. That means matching not just skills and experience, but personality and work style too.

• Clear budgeting – With a fixed salary and contract, you can plan your costs. Self-employed fees can vary and be harder to predict.

• More flexibility – As the employer, you can adjust an employee’s duties in line with changing household needs. Self-employed workers will typically stick to their agreed terms.

• Contractual security – A written employment contract outlines expectations and protects both sides. With a self-employed worker, you often have less control if things don’t go to plan.

• Loyalty and continuity – Employed staff are committed to your household, helping create consistency and trust over time.

• Insurance protection – Employers’ Liability Insurance covers you for workplace injuries. If a self-employed worker isn’t insured, they may be able to claim against you for damages.

If you’re not sure which option is right for you, we’re here to help. Whether you’re bringing in a private chef, housekeeper, nanny or chauffeur, we’ll guide you every step of the way to make the right, informed choice for your home.

Get in touch with the Silks team for personalised advice or to begin your recruitment journey.