garnishing wages

[cleaner]

We are a janitorial company and occasionally when we need to fire an employee they will refurse to return our keys to our customers buildings back to us. Can we garnish their wages for the cost of the keys and locksmith services? If the employee quits on their own but does not return our keys in a reasonable amount of time (1 week?) can we garnish their wages?

 

[cbg]

Technically, it is not a garnishment unless it is ordered by a court. Garnishments and wage deductions fall under different laws. What you are describing is a wage deduction, not a garnishment.

No, you cannot deduct the cost of the keys and/or the locksmith unless you have their written agreement allowing you do to so. You can, however, sue them in small court for the costs.

 

[cleaner]

Thank you!

Thank you for your quick reply and info!