Question:
Last Pesach I was employed by a chametz cleaning company. They sent me to clean a woman’s house. The woman was satisfied with my work. This year I want to go to Mrs. Stern directly to offer my services to clean her house for Pesach without going through the company – [that way I can take all the wages without a percentage going to the company]. Am I allowed to do this?
Answer:
If the lady is not a “regular client” of the company, but only used the company last year and might use somebody else this year, there is no problem in calling her up and offering your private services.
However, if she uses the company every year, and she is “their loyal client,” then doing so is not permitted (this is known as the law of marofia).
Best wishes.
