Utility costs from your helper's normal living and work, such as lights, the fan in her room and the washing machine, are part of running the household and of providing her accommodation. MOM requires you to give her adequate accommodation with sufficient ventilation, including a fan if natural ventilation is not enough, and says you remain responsible for her upkeep. MOM does not set any utilities charge for helpers, and it says employment costs must not be recovered from her.
What MOM says you must provide
- Ventilation: sufficient ventilation, with mechanical ventilation such as an electric fan if natural ventilation is inadequate.
- Basic amenities: at least a mattress, pillow, blanket, bathroom amenities and toiletries.
- Shelter and safety: protection from sun, rain and wind, and no sleeping near dangerous equipment.
Source: Rest days, health and well-being for MDWs. MOM's employment rules also say the employer remains responsible for her upkeep and maintenance, including accommodation, food and medical treatment. See Employment rules for MDWs.
Why not to charge her for utilities
MOM says employers must not recover the levy or other employment-related costs from their workers, and that doing so is an offence under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Her accommodation is something MOM requires you to provide, so deducting the cost of running it from her salary is risky. If you want her to pay for anything personal, agree it in writing first, and remember that reducing her salary needs her written consent and an update to MOM. See MOM's FAQ on passing costs to workers.
Keeping bills down without cutting corners
- Show her how each appliance works, including eco or quick modes. MOM notes that new helpers may not be used to modern appliances.
- Agree simple routines, such as full washing-machine loads and switching off lights and the fan when leaving a room.
- Do not remove the fan from her room to save power if her room needs it for ventilation.
- Her own phone and data are a separate question. See our guide to mobile phone and data costs.
Budgeting it
There is no MOM figure for a helper's share of utilities. If you want a number, compare your household bills before and after she joins. For the fixed costs MOM does set, such as levy, insurance and bond, see maid salary and total cost in Singapore.
Related guides
- Maid salary and total cost in Singapore
- Food allowance vs provided meals
- Mobile phone and data costs
This is a practical guide, not MOM. Rules and fees change, so confirm the current position on mom.gov.sg before you act. Last reviewed: 11 October 2026.
