I told a contractor I wasn't going to renew her contract. Should I have put it in writing?

Someone who was working for me had not signed a contract renewal by the deadline because she had concerns about a clause. I had been thinking of letting her go for awhile because it wasn't a great fit. So I told her I wasn't renewing her contract. I didn't put it in writing. This all happened two weeks ago.

Eva

Eva

Sechelt, BC

It is a best practice to have all communication in writing — particularly when changing terms in a contract or ending the working relationship.

In this particular case, the termination was oral rather than in writing. The termination is still effective as of the date you had the conversation with her. If there is any disagreement about the termination, the facts will need to be examined to determine when the termination actually took place. For example, if the contractor continued to perform work after your conversation, she might try arguing that the contract was not terminated.

I suggest you send something in writing to the contractor confirming the termination date.

Trevor Thomas

Trevor Thomas

Ascent Employment Law
  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in April 2021

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