FAQs

​Q: Why don’t you show us many candidates?

A: More options create anxiety and shift decision risk back to parents. Our responsibility is to assess alignment and present only caregivers we believe could integrate meaningfully into your home. This is intentional.

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Q: Why is SmartCare more expensive than other agencies?

A: Most agencies charge for speed, volume, or access to candidates. SmartCare charges for professional judgement, behavioural assessment, and placement stability. We take responsibility for filtering, interpreting, and guiding — so that parents are not left making high‑stakes decisions alone.

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Q: Can’t we just interview candidates ourselves?

A: Of course — many families do. However, interviews are poor predictors of behaviour under stress. People perform well when calm and prepared. The SmartFit™ Method focuses on how someone is likely to behave on difficult days — where most placements succeed or fail.

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Q: Is this really necessary?

A: For roles involving children — particularly in the early years — stability is not a luxury. Developmental science is clear: children thrive with consistent, emotionally regulated caregivers. Our role is to protect that continuity.

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Q: What if we just need someone quickly?

A: Speed increases placement risk. If urgency is the primary driver, SmartCare may not be the right partner. Our process is designed to protect continuity, emotional safety, and long‑term stability.

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Q: How do you ensure the caregivers you provide are trustworthy?

A: All our caregivers undergo a rigorous vetting process, including:

• In-depth interviews.

• Reference checks.

• Criminal background checks. 

• Verification of skills and certifications.

• Registered sex offender checks.

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Q: Do you share criminal checks?

A: Yes. We send out a full pack with a summary of the reference checks and interviews are shared with parents before placement. Once you've interviewed the 3-4 curated profiles we share with you and you've decided on your preferred candidate, we will send through the criminal check results. 

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Q: What does behavioural screening involve?

A: We assess temperament, values, communication style, and suitability for family environments.​

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Q: How long does placement take?

A: Timeframes vary based on requirements, but we prioritise fit over speed. On average, it takes approximately 2 weeks.

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Q: What areas do you cover?

A: We currently focus on major urban areas - Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria.

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Q: Can we interview the caregivers before hiring?

A: Absolutely! We encourage families to meet potential caregivers to ensure compatibility. We also assist with interview preparation and guidance.​

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Q: What is included in your payroll and management service?

A: Our payroll service covers:

• Salary processing, including taxes, UIF and other deductions.

• Annual and sick leave tracking .

• Payslip generation and record-keeping.

• Compliance with employment laws and regulations.

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Q: Do you handle contracts?

A: Yes, we provide assistance with drafting and managing employment contracts to ensure clarity and compliance for both families and caregivers.

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Q: What happens if we're not satisfied with the caregiver?

A: We offer a satisfaction guarantee. If you are unhappy with a placement, we provide a replacement at no additional cost within the first 30 days (Nanny/ Domestic package), 60 days (Professional Care Package) and up to 90 days (Premium Care Plus Package)​

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Q: Are there any hidden fees?

A: No, we are transparent about all costs upfront. Our pricing includes placement fees. Any ongoing services like payroll management will be clearly stated and agreed to prior to signing the contract. ​

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Q: Can you provide nannies for families with special needs?

A: Yes, we specialise in matching families with caregivers who have experience in training and caring for children with special needs.​

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Q: Do your caregivers speak multiple languages?

A: We work with caregivers from diverse backgrounds, and many are bilingual or multilingual. Let us know your language preferences, and we'll find a match. 

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Q: How do I get started?

A: Getting started is easy! Simply:

1. Book a free consultation through our website.

2. Tell us about your familiy's needs.

3. Let us handle the rest! 

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