Thanks for your replies I do realise it is illegal but as this is such as common practice, and the helpers’ boarding houses are so numerous and seem to operate without issue, I suppose what I am trying to establish is whether or not this law is actually regularly enforced? I would never ask a helper to put themselves in jeopardy, but many wish to live out, and it is also our preference, so I am just gathering some information about potential risks. I understand that the practice of helpers living out is illegal and both employer and employee can be subject to fines/jail, but as we all know, some laws are enforced rigorously, while others seem to have a blind eye turned to them and result in little or no action if broken.