Notice Period for Employment Contracts in Westland: Exceptions and Calculation for Employer and Employee

# Notice Period for Employment Contracts in Westland: Exceptions and Calculation for Employer and Employee The notice period forms an essential part of Dutch employment law, as laid down in Article 7:672 DCC, and is particularly relevant for Westland, the heart of Dutch greenhouse horticulture. For employees in regions such as Naaldwijk, Monster or Kwintsheul, this standardly amounts to one month, unless the parties have agreed otherwise. Employers, often horticultural companies or logistics firms in 's-Gravenzande, must follow stricter rules: one month in the first year, increasing to four months after nine years of service. Local collective labour agreements in the horticulture sector, such as the CAO Glastuinbouw, may prescribe deviating periods, taking into account seasonal work and peak periods. ## Calculation of the Notice Period in Westland The notice period starts on the first day of the month following the notice of termination. During the probationary period, which is common for seasonal workers in Westland greenhouses, only two weeks apply (Art. 7:652 DCC). For fixed-term contracts, which are common in ornamental horticulture around Poeldijk, the contract ends automatically without notice. ## Exceptions and Shorter Periods - **Settlement Agreement**: Parties in Westland can agree on more flexible periods, which is handy for retraining to sustainable cultivation. - **Summary Dismissal**: In the event of an urgent cause, such as theft of crops (Art. 7:677 DCC), immediate termination is permitted without notice period. - **Pension Age**: Automatic end, relevant for older workers in Westland logistics. Local courts in The Hague handle many Westland cases, where judges take into account sector-specific challenges such as labour shortages. ## Practical Tips for Westland Use the UWV notice period calculator and check collective labour agreements via Glastuinbouw Nederland. In disputes, the subdistrict court in The Hague adjusts the period. Employers risk wage continuation payment for too short a notice period, which is crucial in a tight labour market. Employees retain the right to transition compensation after two years, even for seasonal contracts. Correct calculation prevents pitfalls in Westland's dynamic horticultural economy and promotes smooth transitions. In case of doubt: engage a lawyer in The Hague or a local advisor. (312 words)