Cleaner

[LadyPriggsbottom]

I may be being a bit overly cautious here but I have only ever had agency cleaners before so am a bit new to this.

I have moved to a new area and was recommended a cleaner by the previous home owner. She has agreed to clean for us for 'cash in hand'. I don't know anything else about her except that she was recommended by neighbours. Am I supposed to check her background and whether she is legally able to work in the uk etc? I used to work in recruitment so possibly this is overkill... Just wondering what my legal obligations are. Also the cash in hand thing is probably tax avoidance isn't it? So what am I legally obliged to do there?

Any advice greatly appreciated.