Law & occupational safety
Can an employer withdraw remote work?
It depends on the contractual basis. Where there is a binding commitment, a works agreement or established company practice, the employer cannot simply withdraw remote work unilaterally.
An effective revocation clause, a time-limited arrangement or a mutually agreed change mechanism create flexibility instead. Co-determination under works constitution law may additionally apply.
A review interval helps: assess the arrangement regularly against clear criteria and adjust if needed. Return-to-office mandates without a comprehensible rationale erode trust and retention.
Key points
- Binding commitments or practice cannot be ended unilaterally
- Revocation clauses and time limits create flexibility
- Define review intervals in advance
This page provides professional orientation, not legal or tax advice.
More answers
- What is the difference between home office, telework and mobile work?
- Is a risk assessment mandatory for home office work?
- What fines apply for missing occupational safety in home offices?
- Is an accident in the home office a workplace accident?
- Do employees in Germany have a right to work from home?
- Does the works council co-determine remote work?