Employment Relocation Law - what you need to know
Changing the location of your business can have legal implications for your business, and you will need to be familiar with the fundamentals of employment law to familiarise yourself with the rights and obligations of both the employer and your employees. The employer must consider the following from a legal perspective:
Change in Workplace
The majority of employment contracts contain what is known as a “mobility clause” which allows the employer to alter the location of the workplace, providing that reasonable notice is given.
Notice period
A reasonable notice period needs to be provided to the employee. Staff may need to make alternative travel arrangements to and from work, and reconsider their childcare and other family arrangements. Best practice suggests that you should inform staff about the move as soon as the decision has been confirmed, and let them know about the where the new office is located once you have secured the property.
Provide Adequate Consultation
Employers need to provide adequate consultation to all employees about how the change in location may affect their contractual and professional obligations and, in some cases, personal circumstances. Give staff the opportunity to ask questions and offer practical support and guidance to help them adapt seamlessly to the change.
Consider the needs of your staff
The relocation must not adversely affect and individual or particular group of employees. For example, if your current office is located close to public transport and is used by the majority of your staff and you then relocate to an out-of-town location that isn’t accessible via pubic transport, then this will adversely affect those employees without a car. There are ways to address this, such as company shuttle buses to and from train and bus stations. The key here is to think about where your staff need to travel from before deciding on the location of your new office. If you need further guidance about the legal implications on your staff when relocating your business, consult with a Property Solicitor.
For more information, download the free Employee Relocation Legal Guide here.
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