General Binding Declaration of CLA in Den Haag
The general binding declaration (AVV) of a CLA makes the agreements therein mandatory for all employers and employees in a sector, including in Den Haag. Even if you are not a member of the negotiating trade union or employers' organisation, you must follow the rules. This ensures a level playing field, especially in Den Haag sectors such as construction and cleaning at government buildings.
Why the AVV Is Crucial for Den Haag
In the Netherlands, CLAs often apply sector-wide, but without an AVV, they only bind members. Non-members can then offer lower terms, leading to unfair competition. With an AVV, the CLA becomes generally binding, so everyone in Den Haag – from SMEs to large companies – adheres to the same standards. This protects local workers and promotes fair play. Want to know more about CLAs? See our article on the collective labour agreement.
Legal Basis for AVV
The Collective Labour Agreements Act (WCAO) governs the AVV. Key provisions:
- Art. 3 WCAO: The Minister of Social Affairs and Employment grants the AVV at the request of trade unions or employers' organisations.
- Art. 4 WCAO: Requires, among other things, representation of at least two-thirds of sector employers.
- Art. 5 WCAO: Valid for a maximum of one year, extendable.
- Art. 7 WCAO: Revocation upon expiry of the CLA or changed circumstances.
The Minister verifies whether the CLA covers a sector-wide scope of application, such as in the Den Haag construction or cleaning sectors.
Conditions for Granting an AVV
The Minister sets strict requirements:
- Sectoral scope (Art. 1(2) WCAO).
- At least two-thirds of workers represented by the applicant.
- No conflict with labour relations or public order.
- Proof of representativeness.
This prevents abuse, including for Den Haag entrepreneurs.
Procedure for AVV Application
Step-by-step:
- Submission: To the Minister of Social Affairs and Employment, with CLA text and evidence.
- Consultation and Input: Advice from the Social and Economic Council (SER) and comments from stakeholders, including Den Haag parties.
- Decision: Within three months, published in the State Gazette.
- Effective Date: Immediately for the CLA term.
The process often takes months; in 2023, many AVVs were granted for SME sectors relevant to Den Haag.
Standard CLA vs. AVV CLA
Overview:
| Standard CLA | CLA with AVV | |
|---|---|---|
| Binding on | Members of parties | All in sector, including in Den Haag |
| Enforcement | Via membership | Statutory, with fines |
| Competition | Risk of inequality | Fair for everyone |
| Duration | CLA period | Max. 1 year, extendable |
Practice in Den Haag
Example 1: Construction in Den Haag. The construction CLA with AVV obliges non-members to pay CLA wages, crucial for projects around Central Station.
Example 2: Cleaning. AVV for wages and schedules applies at embassies and ministries; self-employed must comply with minimums.
Example 3: Metal Industry. During the COVID crisis, AVV enforced flexible schedules for all Den Haag metal firms.
AVVs thus stabilise local sectors.
Rights and Obligations
Employee Rights:
- CLA benefits such as salary, leave and pension.
- Report to the Netherlands Labour Authority; assistance via Legal Aid Office Den Haag.
Employer Obligations:
- Apply CLA in contracts.
- Maintain records.
- Fines up to €4,000 (Minimum Wage Act).
Enforceable via the subdistrict court of The Hague District Court. Trade unions monitor compliance.
Tips for Den Haag
- Check Your Sector: On szw.nl or cao.nl.
- Join a Union: Extra protection alongside AVV.
- Review Contracts: Free advice at Legal Aid Office Den Haag.
- Stay Alert: Follow State Gazette updates.
- Entrepreneurs: Factor in costs; consider support from the Municipality of Den Haag.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.