Employee Contract?

[Mike V]

Do any of you guys make your employees sign a contract? Not just a non-compete, but something they sign that holds them liable for breaking equipment, missing equipment, etc? Not normal wear and tear, something that could be avoided by not being stupid? If so, can you share? Thanks in advance. Mike

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Last edited by Mike V; 10-14-2010 at 09:50 PM.

[Steve]

Lawn care business tips

Did you check in the contract section here? http://www.gopherforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=34 I think there are some employee contracts. You bring up some good points. I do wonder out of all that, if it could hold up in court. But I guess ultimately, anything you can think of, you can write down and see if an employee would sign it. Then if there was an issue and it went to court, see if the court would enforce it. I guess it doesnt hurt. I wish we had a lawyer on here

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[Rodriguez11]

More than likely you would need a lawyer to review your written contract to make sure it is enforceable. And even if it is deemed "enforceable" it would be on you to prove negligence on their part and not yours.

[Steve]

That is a very good point. I did some more looking around after this initial post and saw a lot of information on how when you hire an employee, it tends to be the employers responsibility to cover the cost of damaged equipment.

Rodriguez, do you use such a contract in your business or have you ever had to sign one? Do any stories stand out, from your experience, as far as what in them can be useful and what isn't so?

[Rodriguez11]

I have never personally signed one or dealt with one. I do know from my general management classes I have taken that having your employee sign a contract saying they will take care of equipment and be liable for all damage, whether you intend to pursue this or not, will increase the chances they will take pride in their job and do their best to take care of equipment. Just an idea.. But of course it just depends on your workers, if you feel you really need them to sign something because you are afraid they will damage something.. Maybe reconsider having them work for you! You do not want workers who do not care about your equipment or business.

[Steve]

That is a very good point. It does make me wonder if having employees sign something like that, if it should be an employee contract or more of a list of S.O.P.'s that the employee reads and agrees to follow.

Do you think one would work better over the other or do you feel they are both ultimately the same?

[Rodriguez11]

I think a good explanatory employee contract that lays out everything you expect from your employee is a good thing for them to sign. By them signing and acknowledging they have read and agree to the employment it holds them further liable to the employer rather than just a list of things to conform to.