Discovering Brazil

Household Help Many expatriates have difficulty understanding the need for household help in Brazil and how it is a part of local practice and culture to hire staff when you are able. One key factor is whether you live in a house or an apartment. In Brazil, it is unwise to leave a house totally unattended. For instance, you may need someone to let your repairmen in, accept deliveries, pay bills that are presented only at the door, etc. If you have children, the need for a regular nanny or babysitter is stronger because hourly sitters are scarce and expensive. When hiring household help it is important to remember that this is a business relationship. There are certain practices or standards in place that may assist you in developing a comfortable relationship with them. Firstly, it is not customary for a household help worker to eat at the table with your family. Secondly, they should not watch TV in your living room, unless it is a part of looking after your children. These standards are common in Brazil to help create a comfortable, yet professional and trusting relationship between the worker and an employer. Be Prepared to Teach It is important to teach the habits and practices of your home. Some household help workers may come from very limited backgrounds, where they are not as familiar with indoor plumbing or electrical appliances. It may be helpful to begin with a two to three week trial period where you can teach them how to use any appliances or explain how you would like things done. In this short time you will discover much about their personality, skill-level and attitude. How to Hire Household Help To begin, ask for a reference letter from previous employers. The candidate should provide their Worker’s Identity Booklet (CTPS) and Social Security Card ( Carnê de Contribuinte do INSS ). The work card must be registered and signed by the employer. This process is explained in detail under the Rights of Household Help in this chapter. Legal Obligations to Household Help The New Constitution of 1988 addressed the area of household help for the first time. As a result, there are certain mandatory requirements. One important piece of advice is to be sure everything is signed by your household help worker, and keep a copy for your records. If you pay your worker more than required by law on a regular basis, these excesses will probably be considered rights by any court.

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Discovering Brazil