5 Warning Signs Your Helper/Maid May Be Planning to Leave

Is your helper thinking of leaving

Domestic helpers/maids sometimes choose to end their employment early — it can be due to homesickness, better job offers, personal issues, or dissatisfaction at work.While some departures can’t be prevented, spotting early signs can give you a chance to address concerns, improve the situation, and avoid a sudden disruption in your household.

Here are five signs that your helper/maid wants to leave:

1. Frequent, Private Phone Calls

If your helper is making more frequent or unusually private phone calls, especially late at night or during breaks, she may be discussing new job opportunities or arrangements to return home.

What to do:Avoid accusing her of wanting to leave — instead, have an open conversation about whether she’s happy and if she sees herself continuing in the role.

2. Sudden Drop in Commitment

Helpers who are preparing to leave often stop putting in the same level of effort — chores may be rushed, attention to detail drops, and there’s less interest in learning new tasks.

What to do:Gently point out the changes you’ve noticed and ask if she’s feeling less motivated or facing difficulties.

3. Increased Requests for Time Off or Advances

More requests for urgent leave, cash advances, or extra time away could mean she’s preparing for a transition — arranging travel, attending interviews, or dealing with family matters before departure.

What to do:Ask about the reasons behind the requests and offer help where possible. Sometimes, showing understanding can encourage her to stay.

4. Emotional Distance

If she becomes less communicative, avoids casual conversation, or seems emotionally detached from the household, it could indicate she’s already mentally “checked out.”

What to do:Rebuild connection — show appreciation, ask about her day, and make her feel included.

5. Mentioning Friends Who Have Changed Employers

If she talks more often about friends who switched jobs for higher pay or “better employers,” that could be a sign that your helper wants to leave.

What to do:Acknowledge that you value her work and discuss any concerns she has. Sometimes, resolving small issues early can prevent her from following others.

Final Thoughts on how to spot signs that your helper wants to leave

Not every sign means your helper is definitely leaving — but noticing these changes early gives you the opportunity to have an honest conversation before it’s too late.At Redline Employment, we help employers build stronger relationships with their helpers and offer mediation services to address problems before they lead to resignation.

Contact us today if you’d like guidance on keeping your helper happy and motivated.