Separate nanny pay from an agency placement fee
When budgeting for a nanny in Nairobi, distinguish the nanny’s compensation from any recruitment or placement fee charged by an agency. The nanny’s pay is an employment cost agreed between the family and the nanny. An agency fee, where applicable, is a separate charge for placement services. Ask for both amounts separately so you can see the full cost of hiring.
The amount and structure of any agency fee can vary by provider and service. Do not assume what it includes, whether it is refundable, or whether additional charges apply. Request a written quotation and the current terms before making a payment.
What can affect the cost of a placement?
There is no single figure that fits every household. The role, the candidate’s relevant experience and the schedule all influence what arrangement may be suitable. A clear brief helps an agency explain the quote and helps you compare options on the same basis.
- The role and experience required, such as newborn or infant-care experience.
- Working hours, days, start date and whether occasional extra hours are expected.
- Whether you need a live-in or live-out arrangement, including accommodation expectations for live-in work.
- The Nairobi location and practical commute or handover arrangements.
- Additional agreed responsibilities, such as school runs, meal preparation or child-related laundry.
- Which recruitment, screening, matching or follow-up services are included in the agency fee.
Ask what the quote covers
Before you compare quotes, ask the agency to itemize its own fee separately from the nanny’s compensation and any other employment-related costs. Ask which checks or services are included, whether there are costs for additional requests, and when payment is due. Confirm any replacement-support period and its eligibility conditions in writing rather than relying on a verbal summary.
Also discuss the employment terms directly with the candidate. Agree on duties, working hours, days off, compensation, accommodation where relevant, and how you will handle schedule changes. Check current Kenyan employment requirements and get appropriate advice if you are unsure about an obligation.
- What is the agency placement fee, separate from the nanny’s pay?
- Which services and checks are included, and are any additional charges possible?
- When is each payment due, and what is the cancellation or refund policy?
- What are the written terms for any replacement support?
- What employment costs and responsibilities should we budget for separately?
How to request a useful, current quote
Share your Nairobi area, the child’s age, the duties you need covered, your preferred working arrangement, weekly schedule and target start date. Mention any essential experience and separate must-have requirements from preferences. The more specific your brief, the easier it is to receive a relevant quote and candidate options.
Sashley Nannies does not publish a fixed placement price on this guide because the role and current terms need to be confirmed for each enquiry. Contact our team for a current quote and ask us to confirm in writing which agency fee, services and employment costs apply before you decide.
Frequently asked questions about nanny placement costs
Is the agency fee the nanny’s salary? No. Ask for any placement fee and the nanny’s agreed compensation as separate items.
Can I get the same quote for every nanny role? Not necessarily. Requirements such as experience, hours, location, duties and live-in arrangements can differ.
When should I pay? Confirm the amount, payment schedule, cancellation and refund terms directly with the agency in writing before paying.
Does a placement quote include replacement support? Do not assume it does. Ask for the current written terms, including the period, eligibility and what support covers.