Home Office

Flexible working: The modern home office

Working from home has become established as a flexible way of working in recent years. It allows employees to complete tasks from home, which is particularly beneficial for families. However, clear rules, the right equipment, and a healthy work-life balance are crucial for successful working from home.

What is a home office?

A home office, formerly known as working from home, refers to the possibility of working remotely. This way of working can vary depending on the profession and employer. While in the past, working from home often involved manual labor such as knitting and sewing, the concept has now broadened to include office work that would normally be done in a company office.

Development of the home office

In recent decades, working from home has become a viable option for many professions. Fifty years ago, it was unthinkable for an office worker to work from home. Today, however, numerous employers offer their employees the opportunity to perform tasks from home, which particularly benefits families with working parents.

How does working from home work?

A successful home office requires clear employment law regulations and agreements between employer and employee. Several factors must be considered to ensure the productivity and satisfaction of both parties.

Legal framework and statutory regulations

In Germany, there is no general legal obligation for employers to offer home office options. Nevertheless, important legal frameworks must be observed. The Working Time Act (ArbZG) stipulates that working hours must be documented and legally mandated rest periods must be respected, even when working from home. The Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG) obligates employers to ensure the safety and health of their employees, including those working from home.

Since June 2021, the Works Council Modernization Act has strengthened the rights of works councils regarding mobile working. It regulates co-determination rights and requires compliance with data protection standards. In addition, the German government plans to further strengthen the right to work from home and enshrine it in law.

These regulations ensure that employees working from home have the same protection and rights as those working in the office. Employers must make clear agreements to avoid misunderstandings and comply with legal requirements.

Employment contract and insurance issues

The employment contract should be reviewed at the outset to clarify liability issues in the event of an insurance claim. Accidents during working hours must be clearly defined. Furthermore, the employer must clearly communicate expectations regarding availability, work quality and quantity, flexibility, responsibilities, deadlines, and teamwork.

Technical equipment and data protection

A successful home office depends entirely on the technical equipment. The home workspace must be connected to the company via internet and telephone. Data protection plays a central role here, ensuring that confidential documents can be processed securely. Standardized hardware and software, often provided by the employer, ensure that the home office is just as efficient as a traditional office.

Who pays for the home office?

The costs of a home office are usually shared between employer and employee. While the employer often provides a computer and telephone, purchasing office furniture is usually the employee's responsibility. However, investments in ergonomic furniture and equipment can be worthwhile and are sometimes tax-deductible.

Investments in home office for health reasons

In many cases, it's worthwhile for employees to invest a little money. For example, the home office should be equipped with features that encourage movement, such as an Aeris Active Office, which transforms offices into movement spaces, and active seating like the Aeris Swopper , which makes static and therefore unhealthy sitting impossible. Furthermore, certain investments – including ergonomic office chairs – are tax-deductible.

Conclusion