The 10 most important questions in summary

Collective agreements represent an important framework for craft businesses in the plumbing, heating and air conditioning (SHK) sector when it comes to fair working conditions. They not only regulate wages, but also other important aspects such as working hours or holiday entitlements. But what does the SHK collective agreement actually say? We answer the 10 most important questions in this FAQ article.

1) Is there a uniform collective agreement for SHK?

In Germany there is no SHK collective agreement valid throughout Germany. Collective agreements, however, are concluded at regional level, usually between IG Metall and the respective state plumbing, heating and air conditioning associations. This means that different regulations may apply in Baden-Württemberg than, for example, in North Rhine-Westphalia or Saxony. While the basic principles are similar everywhere, details such as standard salaries may vary by region.

2) Do collective agreements apply to all SHK companies?

No, the collective agreement only applies in companies subject to collective agreements, i.e. if the employer is a member of the relevant employers’ association or if the application of the provisions of the collective agreement has been agreed in the individual employment contract. In practice, many smaller companies in the SHK sector work without being bound by collective bargaining agreements, but often voluntarily follow collective bargaining standards.

3) How high is the standard salary for SHK?

Standard wages in the SHK trade differ significantly depending on the region. Furthermore, factors such as the scope of activity or professional experience, as well as any bonuses and increases, also play a role. If you want to know how much your collective wage is, you must consult the collective agreement of the respective federal state. Here you will find the salary scale of the collective agreements with IG Metall, valid among others in North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, Lower Saxony and Baden-Württemberg. Do you want to know in which state installers earn the most? You can find this information in our SHK salary report.

4) How is working hours regulated in the SHK collective agreement?

Regular weekly working hours in the SHK sector usually range from 38.5 to 40 hours. Overtime work is only permitted in exceptional cases and must be paid accordingly or compensated with free time. Working time accounts are also recommended to flexibly manage peak orders. For SHK companies this means better planning and for employees greater transparency regarding their working hours. However, there is an obligation to record working hours.

5) How much is the holiday entitlement according to the collective agreement?

In Germany there is a legal right to 20 days of holiday per year. However, employees in the SHK sector are usually granted a higher holiday entitlement by the collective agreement: craftsmen covered by the IG Metall collective agreement have 30 days of holiday per year, plus 70% of their monthly income as additional holiday pay. Such generous standards ensure recovery, and given the physically demanding work in the HVAC industry, this is entirely appropriate.

6) What notice periods apply in SHK trading?

Notice periods in the SHK collective agreement are usually based on the basic notice period: this legal minimum standard is four weeks until the 15th or end of the month. However, if different notice periods are agreed in the collective agreement, these provisions also prevail. Whether the notice period is shorter or longer always depends on the individual case. However, for employees who have been with the company for a longer period of time, the employer generally allows a longer notice period.

7) What rules are foreseen in the SHK collective agreement regarding the probationary period?

The exact duration of the probationary period is regulated differently depending on the collective agreement, but in any case it cannot exceed six months. In the SHK sector the probationary period is often also significantly shorter (e.g. one month for blue collar workers and three months for white collar workers). During this period, a short notice period applies: either party can terminate the employment relationship with two weeks’ notice, without giving any reason. At the end of the trial period, the regular notice periods set out in the collective agreement apply.

8) Do craftsmen in the HVAC sector have the right to strike?

The fundamental right to strike is enshrined in law in all sectors in Germany, including the HVAC sector. However, strikes are only permitted in the context of collective bargaining disputes and must be organized by a union, so a strike without the union’s support would not be permitted. In practice, however, the right to strike is relatively rarely used in the SHK sector.

9) Do collective agreements also apply to interns?

Yes, collective agreements in the SHK sector also include trainees. The contracts regulate not only the amount of training pay, but also the weekly working hours, as well as holiday rights and special benefits. Furthermore, collective agreements create clear rules for exam exemptions or job opportunities after training.

10) Why is it worth joining a union for craftsmen in the HVAC sector?

Unions ensure that collective agreements are negotiated that guarantee better working conditions than the legal minimum. This includes not only fair wages, but also more vacation days, shorter working hours and generous special payments. Your union also supports you, for example, in the event of further training or legal conflicts. The union can therefore be a real source of support for craftsmen in the HVAC industry.