MOM Requirement
As an employer, you are required to provide acceptable accommodation for your domestic worker. Proper accommodation is not only a legal requirement but also contributes significantly to your helper's well-being and productivity.
Adequate Shelter
Accommodation must protect your helper from environmental elements
Requirements
- Protection from sun, rain, and strong winds
- Structurally safe living space
- Indoor accommodation (not balcony or outdoors)
Do Not
- Place helper in balcony or outdoor areas
- House in makeshift shelters
Basic Amenities
Provide essential bedding and personal care items
Requirements
- Mattress, pillow, and blanket
- Bathroom amenities (soap, shampoo, etc.)
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Safe storage space for personal belongings
Sufficient Ventilation
Living space must be well-ventilated
Requirements
- Natural ventilation (windows or air flow)
- Mechanical ventilation (fan) if natural ventilation is inadequate
- Comfortable temperature and air circulation
Safety
Accommodation must be free from potential hazards
Requirements
- No dangerous equipment or structures nearby
- No exposure to toxic substances or fumes
- Stable and secure sleeping area
- Access to emergency exits
Do Not
- Place sleeping area near machinery or hazardous items
- Store dangerous chemicals or tools near sleeping area
Modesty & Privacy
Respect your helper's modesty and privacy
Requirements
- Helper must not sleep in the same room as male adults or teenagers
- Inform helper of any video recording devices in the home
- No video devices in private areas (sleeping area, bathroom)
- Adequate changing space with privacy
Do Not
- Install cameras in helper's sleeping area
- Place helper in room with male adults or teenagers
- Monitor bathroom or changing areas
Space & Privacy
Provide adequate living space with privacy
Requirements
- Separate room when possible
- If separate room not possible, ensure adequate space and privacy
- Sufficient space for personal belongings
- Reasonable degree of personal space
Common Housing Scenarios
Practical solutions for different home layouts
Limited Space Solutions
If you don't have a separate room for your helper, consider these alternatives:
Partition screens
Use sturdy partition screens or room dividers to create a private space in the living room or other shared areas.
Convertible furniture
Consider a pull-out bed or day bed that can be converted to a seating area during the day to maximize space.
Privacy curtains
Install ceiling-mounted curtain tracks to create a flexible private sleeping area that can be opened during the day.
MOM Inspections
MOM may conduct random inspections to ensure compliance with accommodation standards:
Prepare for inspections
Ensure that your helper's accommodation is always maintained according to MOM standards, as inspections can occur with minimal notice.
Penalties for non-compliance
Failure to provide acceptable accommodation may result in fines, revocation of work permit, or being barred from hiring domestic workers in the future.
Document your arrangements
Consider keeping photos or documentation of the accommodation arrangement as evidence of compliance with MOM requirements.
Best Practices
Going beyond minimum requirements for a comfortable living environment
Involve Your Helper
When setting up their living space, involve your helper in the process. Ask about their preferences for arranging their personal area and respect their input.
Regular Maintenance
Regularly check the condition of your helper's living space. Ensure bedding is in good condition and any issues with ventilation or safety are promptly addressed.
Personal Touch
Allow your helper to personalize their space with photos or small decorative items. This promotes a sense of belonging and improves overall well-being.
Need help with accommodation setup?
Our team can provide guidance on creating suitable living arrangements for your domestic worker that comply with MOM requirements and ensure comfort.