The Responsibilities of a Housekeeper

The traditional role of a housekeeper is to ensure that the household runs smoothly, while taking care of the needs of a family and any guests they may have. In general, this will include everything from overseeing/undertaking cleaning, laundry, basic cooking to running errands (post office/dry cleaning). As every household is so different there are of course specific duties and responsibilities that would need to be discussed at the interview stage.

Your family may require additional support from a housekeeper, which is why many housekeepers have multiple areas of expertise. For example, if you have children, it’s likely you’d benefit most from employing a housekeeper/nanny. Other roles could include housekeeper/companion, or even housekeeper/cook. The desired candidate will have experience of more than just basic cooking! 


You should decide whether your family requires 24 hour assistance, or just a few hours per day. You should consider whether you will need a ‘daily’ or ‘live-in’ housekeeper. It’s likely if you have children, that you will require a live-in housekeeper/nanny. 

Housekeeper/Cook

With this role, the employee shall have the general responsibilities of a housekeeper (i.e. cleaning, laundry, errands etc.), with the added duty of preparing every meal for the entire household. As the employer, you must discuss meal choices with the candidate, ensuring they are aware of any allergies or specific dietary requirements.


It’s also worth noting that a candidate with excessive experience in cooking may be best for you, if you often have guests or parties.  

Housekeeper/Nanny

A housekeeper/nanny is ideal for busy families who have children, and need a bit of extra help when it comes to maintaining the household! 


The responsibilities of the housekeeper/nanny obviously include the general tasks of a housekeeper. On top of this, the candidate is required to take on the following duties:

  • Childcare/babysitting

  • Preparing snacks for the children and sometimes helping in the kitchen

  • Doing the school run/taking children to activity clubs/parties/appointments

Housekeeper/Companion

A Housekeeper/Companion is a great asset to any home where an individual or an elderly couple requires someone with them during the day or night to assist with everyday tasks and also provide companionship! That being said, please be aware that housekeepers/companions are not necessarily qualified carers/nurses.


Some Housekeeper/Companions are employed on a full-time, live-in basis as this provides peace of mind and reassurance for help required during the night. 

Following an injury or surgery, a temporary housekeeper/companion may be helpful as they can provide daily assistance. Also, in the absence of a family member a housekeeper/companion may be appreciated. 


The specific responsibilities of a housekeeper/companion are:

  • Shopping for weekly essentials and running general errands

  • Accompanying on special and regular outings

  • Cooking and sharing meals

  • Light domestic support such as cleaning, laundry, some pet care

  • Light gardening duties

  • Participating in & helping with hobbies and interests

  • Helping with travel arrangements and accompanying to appointments

  • Assisting with correspondence and paperwork

As you can see there are plenty of possibilities for combining the Housekeeper role with other responsibilities and a good deal of flexibility!


If you’re looking for housekeeper jobs or nanny jobs, then look no further than Beauchamp Partners.

So, if you are think a Housekeeper would be an asset to your home and would like more information or if you have any questions about the roles described above, please contact the Beauchamp Partners team on  +44 (0) 20 7259 6999 or email info@beauchamppartners.co.uk

Debbie Gray