What do I need to know before signing an employment contract?

Here are five things you should check before signing a new job contract.

• Job title and duties. You need to review the job title and duties as indicated in the employment contract.
• Salary and benefits.
• Start date and working hours.
• Holiday pay and sick leave.
• Restrictive covenants.

What is required in an employment contract?

By law, an employment contract must contain the following contractual clauses, known as ‘express terms’: Name and address of employer and employee. When the contract is expected to end if temporary or fixed term. Job title or a brief description of duties.

Is an employment contract necessary?

There is no requirement that you have to enter into a written employee contract with every employee that you have. However, there are some situations in which it makes sense to enter into an employment contract with your employees.

Is signing an employment contract binding?

After signing a contract of employment and not starting, the individual is still an employee. This is because a legally binding contract now exists between the parties—yourself and the staff member. But it does mean they can’t just decline the job offer after signing your employment contract.

What should I ask for in an employment contract?

7 things you need to include in an employment contract

• Legal disclaimer.
• Job information.
• Compensation and benefits.
• Time off, sick days and vacation policy.
• Employee classification.
• The schedule and employment period.
• Confidentiality, privacy and responsibility.
• Termination, severance and survival.

Can you get out of an employment contract before starting?

Is there any action you can take? After signing a contract of employment and not starting, the individual is still an employee. But it does mean they can’t just decline the job offer after signing your employment contract. Instead, they’ll have to terminate the contract as it’s identified as legal.

Is it illegal to work without signing a contract?

Is it illegal to work without a contract? There is no legal requirement for an employee to have a written contract of employment. However, we would always recommend providing one for clarity and to protect your business. Also, you must provide a Statement of Main Terms (SMT) on the first day of employment.

Can I be sacked for not signing a new contract?

If you don’t agree with changes to your employment conditions. If you don’t agree, your employer is not allowed to just bring in a change. However, they can terminate your contract (by giving notice) and offer you a new one including the revised terms – effectively sacking you and taking you back on.