How to Verify Domestic Staff in Nigeria

People who work in your home know your routine, your family and your belongings. A careful check before they start is not rude. It is responsible.

Collect the basics

• Full name, phone number and a clear photo
• A valid means of identification
• Home address and how long they have lived there
• Name and contact of a guarantor
• Previous employer and reference contacts

Call the guarantor and the previous employer

Ask the guarantor how they know the person, for how long and where they live. Ask the previous employer why the person left and whether they would hire them again. Listen for hesitation and inconsistent details.

Visit the home address

The address is where many stories fall apart. Someone should go there, confirm the person lives there and meet a family member or neighbour where appropriate. This is the most useful check, and it is difficult to do from far away.

Start with a trial period

Even after checks, begin with a trial period. Keep valuables and documents secure. Make your rules clear from the first day.

Respect the person's privacy

Tell the person that checks are part of your hiring process, and keep what you learn private. Checks should confirm facts, not look for ways to embarrass someone.

If you live far from the person's address, a field verifier can do the visit and guarantor checks and report back.