Employee Rights for a Company Relocation

A company relocation doesn't have to harm an employee's life.

Companies relocate for all kinds of reasons: mergers, cost reduction, larger or nicer offices. You, as a worker, have a set of rights and responsibilities to be aware of in case your employer relocates.

Mobility Clause

If your employer is relocating, check your contract for a mobility clause. This will state that you are required to move with the employer within certain limits. If your contract does not include a mobility clause and you decide not to move for any reason, you may be declared redundant.

Redundancy

Redundancy means your job no longer exists and you have rejected the alternative job offered (i.e. the job at the new location) as unsuitable. You have the right to a trial period in any alternative job. Since redundancy is considered a dismissal, you may be able to take unfair dismissal action.

What to Do Next

Before deciding anything, check your contract for a mobility clause. Find out if your employer is offering a relocation package and ask about a trial period in the new location. If you decide not to move, ask about a redundancy payment.

References

• Directgov: Relocation of Work