Organising your move can be time consuming and tiring. If you’re working 100% of your time and you’ve already got your daily life to deal with, just imagine. On top of that, you have to deal with the administrative procedures and the boxes to pack. Many people are unaware that they can ask their employer for time off when they move. In this article we have put together a list of questions you might have about your rights:
Day off and move: what does employment law say?
The law (Art. 329, para. 3 CO) stipulates that “the employer shall grant the employee, within the framework of the normal working hours, the time required by particular events (“the usual hours and days off”). It should be noted that such absences must be agreed with the employer. In particular, removals from the main residence are considered as special events.
In general, the worker is entitled to one day off due to moving once a year. However, if the person moves to another canton, a second day off may be granted, taking into account additional administrative formalities.
If in doubt, refer to your employment contract or the personnel regulations.
Can I choose when to take a day off for my move?
First of all, your employer cannot refuse your day off. However, they can refuse your day off on the date you want. This is why it is important to agree with your employer in advance before preparing your move, especially if you are using a removal company. It would be a shame to have to go to work while the removal team is at your home.
Moving on your day off
Of course, you are entitled to ask for the day off on Friday, even if you are moving on a Sunday with a removal company. It’s not just the transport that takes time in a move. You’ll need time beforehand to pack your boxes and afterwards to unpack them, not to mention the paperwork. In fact, you may prefer to take a day off once you’ve arrived in your new home!
Do I have the right to this time off if I move out on my own?
Yes, you have the right to ask for a day off from the moment you move. Therefore, even if you hire a van and transport your boxes on your own or with friends, you can still claim your rights.
It is important to be aware of the law or to check with your company’s human resources department to find out which events entitle you to extra days off. Now all you have to do is take advantage of this time to organise your move or, on the contrary, relax while we take care of everything.