Start with the daily kitchen responsibility
A live-in cook stays in accommodation provided as part of the working arrangement. It does not mean continuous duty. For an Islamabad enquiry, describe breakfast, lunch and dinner requirements and the hours between them when the cook is free from work. The role should have a defined routine even when the person lives at the property.
Explain whether cooking is for one family or multiple portions. Include cuisine preferences, the number of diners and how often guests come. A candidate who suits everyday Pakistani meals may have a different skill set from a specialist private chef, so discuss the actual menu rather than relying on the job title.
Describe the accommodation honestly
Before arranging a live-in placement, explain the available sleeping space, bathroom access, meals and arrangements for personal belongings. Privacy and uninterrupted rest should be discussed with the candidate. Tell the team whether the home already has other resident staff and how shared facilities operate.
A room alone does not settle the employment arrangement. Agree time off, leave, family contact and how duties will be handed over during an absence. If late events occur occasionally, discuss the extra hours beforehand. This makes expectations clearer for both parties and helps the cook assess whether the offer is workable.
Keep cooking separate from unlimited domestic work
A live-in cook can have agreed kitchen cleanup duties, but residence should not turn the role into general availability for every household request. List serving, shopping, laundry or other tasks separately and decide whether another helper is needed. The main cooking responsibility should remain achievable.
Confirm the salary and payment date in writing. The household pays the worker directly; the agency charges a one-time fee equal to one month of the agreed salary. Ask for the written conditions of six-month replacement support. During the first week, review meals and communication against the brief you agreed, using one family contact to keep instructions consistent.
Before you enquire
Does live-in mean a cook is available 24 hours a day?
No. Live-in describes accommodation. Working hours, breaks, sleep and days off should still be agreed clearly.
Can I request a male live-in cook in Islamabad?
Yes. Male home cooks are a main focus of our placement enquiries. Describe the accommodation, meals and location; the team will discuss current candidates.
