104 CultureShock! Chile
contributions to health care) or because she is unaware of
her rights, you should make sure you follow the local laws.
For more details contact the Ministry of Labour.Repairmen
Depending upon the rental agreement, you may be respon-
sible for repairs in your home. Most likely, the landlord
will handle major repairs, but you will have to take charge
of minor problems. There are two options for finding a
repairman (maestro). First, the telephone book has a long list
of professional services under reparaciones. If the problem
concerns electricity or gas, the best suggestion is to call the
company or a professional service.
For other minor repairs, however, a cheaper alternative
is to ask the mayordomo (superintendent) or conserje
(superintendent) of the building if you live in an apartment
or your maid if they know anyone who can do the job. Most
likely they can provide you with the name of a maestro
who can fix ‘anything’. It is important to ask someone you
trust, because some maestros are much better than others,
in terms of both ability and punctuality. Make sure you
stress exactly what you want done, otherwise it may turn
into a bigger project than desired. A common practice is
for the maestro to come first to look at the problem and
ask for money in advance to buy parts. He will set up a
time to return to complete the project. Rarely will someone
take the money and not do the job, especially if he was
recommended by a friend. Also, using a false ID from a
professional service to gain access to your house is not a
common crime in Chile. Most maestros are trustworthy,
but you should never leave them alone in your home. A
professional service can be paid by cash or check and you
may tip the repairman. If you hire someone from a small
shop or an independent maestro no tip is necessary.
Most people who own or rent a home in Santiago hire
a gardener (jardinero) to take care of the yard. If you rent,
most likely the gardener hired by the previous occupants
will continue to work for you (although there is no written
contract). However, you are required to pay for his services