Frequently Asked Questions
On Call Services


Is there a charge to access your services?
  Our On-Call Membership allows you to access our services for one year. Appropriate placement fees are also charged when a Nanny is to be placed.
   
Where do you find your Nannies?
  We find most of our Nannies by word of mouth by nannies as well as parents. We also advertise rather extensively in the yellow pages, parent magazines, and local newspapers to ensure we have an adequate reserve of qualified screened Nannies at all times.
   
What areas does Grapevine Placement Agency cover?
 

Grapevine Placement Agency services 4 different counties:

  • Napa County
  • Sonoma County
  • Marin County
  • Solano County
   
How are Nannies screened?
  We personally interview all candidates to ensure they have the right attitude and aptitude for this kind of work. They first must complete an application and go through an interview. If they have the background and qualifications we are looking for, they are background checked. They must complete infant/child CPR, and first aid training. Although driving is not always required, they must submit a driving record issued by the DMV that is current within three months. They also must have previous child care or adult care references. Only those who pass all these requirements qualify for placement.
   
How long does it take to hire a suitable Nanny?
  After signing on to the On-Call Service you can hire a Nanny with-in 24-hours, sometimes sooner.
   
What are the responsibilities of the Nanny?
  A Nanny is responsible for the care and welfare of the children. The Family is requested to submit an application to customize what is expected of them.
   
Will we be able to interview the Nanny before hiring?
  No. When you are on the on-call service, we send you who we think would best fit your families needs and expectations according to your completed Family Application.
   
How much do the Nannies make per hour?
 

Since we are a referral agency we provide you with qualified candidates. You pay the Nanny directly. The hourly rate paid directly to the Nanny is as follows:

  • $14 per hour for 1 child
  • $16 per hour for 2 children
  • $18 per hour for 3 children
  • $20 per hour for 4 children 

*There is a four hour minimum that must be paid to the Nanny per sitting. Gratuity is optional. The fees and hourly rates may vary per county, the age and number of children and special circumstances.

   
Are the Nannies licensed or bonded?
  Nannies are considered independent contractors. Typically, any person who is within the Families household is covered under the homeowner/renter's insurance policy. This could be verified with the pertinent insurance agency. Since the Agency only refers the candidates they are not obligated to ensure licensing or bonding but exercise due diligence in screening the candidates.
   
What is TrustLine?
  TrustLine is a state-run criminal background check on child-care providers.  All Nannies are either TrustLined (and have been verified), screened through Social Services (also verified), or have had a criminal background check through an independent investigative background check company.  You can learn more about TrustLine at www.trustline.org, or by calling 1-800-822-8490.
   
Why would I want to sign on to the Basic or Advanced On-Call Service?
 
  1. Safety - The stringent background screening, reference and qualification checking of our nannies ensures that you'll have the best care available for your child.
  2. Save Hassle - Screening potential Nannies is time-consuming and can be expensive.
  3. Be Prepared - For last minute, emergency or even date night needs.
  4. Annual Subscription Fee Structure - For most families, the annual fee structure is more cost effective than paying per-time agency fees, as well as ensuring a higher quality of Nannies.
   
How are Nanny Qualifications checked by Grapevine Placement Agency?
 

Grapevine Placement Agency conducts an in-person interview with each Nanny prior to screening, learning about their experience, needs, and child-care interests.  Each Nanny must also be legally able to work, proficient in English, and have a minimum of two years child care experience (and often much more).

The Nannies must provide a packet that includes the following:

  • Exceptional Employment History & Personal References
  • Credit Check
  • Driver's License
  • Social Security card
  • Child/Infant CPR & First Aid Trained
  • Proof of Vehicle Insurance and Registration
  • Driving Record Printout
  • Birth Certificate or Passport

Additionally, each Nanny provides at least two excellent child care references, which are called and verified by Grapevine Placement Agency, and each Nannies criminal record is checked through TrustLine, Social Services, or an investigative company.

   
What is expected of member families?
  Treat your Nannies as the highly qualified professionals they are.  Nannies will come expecting to play with and teach your children, so their primary duties should be child care, not housework.  Nannies will not cancel on you (extenuating circumstances aside), so please give them the same courtesy.  Also, please be sure to read the Nanny Rate information at the top of this page.