Can Employer Change Contract Notice Period

As an employee, your contract is your agreement with your employer. It lays out the terms and conditions of your employment, including your notice period if you decide to leave the company. However, what happens when your employer wants to change your notice period? Can they do that?

The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on a few factors. Let`s explore them in more detail.

Firstly, it`s important to note that if your employer wants to change your notice period, they must do so in writing and give you reasonable notice of the change. They cannot simply announce the change one day and expect you to accept it. They must give you time to review and consider the changes.

Secondly, if the change to your notice period is a decrease, for example, from three months to one month, this can be a breach of contract. Your employer must have a valid reason for making the change, and they must negotiate it with you beforehand. If they do not, you could have grounds for a legal claim against them.

On the other hand, if the change is an increase in your notice period, it is generally easier for your employer to do so. They have more flexibility with increasing notice periods, as it is seen as a benefit to you as an employee. However, they should still give you reasonable notice of the change.

It`s worth noting that your employer also cannot change your notice period retrospectively. If you agreed to a three-month notice period when you started your job, your employer cannot change it to one month if you have already given notice.

In summary, your employer can change your notice period, but only if they give you reasonable notice of the change and have a valid reason for doing so. If the change is a decrease, they must negotiate it with you and cannot change it retrospectively.

If you have any concerns about changes to your contract, it`s always best to seek legal advice.