Recently I received an offer from a (software) company. I read and accepted it by printing the contract and signing it, then sending it back to the company (2 copies). The company confirmed it received my signed contract (via email), but has been keeping delaying sending the contract with signature from their side. It has been two weeks. I tried to call them today but received an automatic response.
Problem: When they confirmed (via email) they received the contract with my signature, they "welcomed" me to their team (implying they're not considering other candidates at the same time). Because of this, I officially terminated the work contract with my current company, as well as sent my leaving notice to my apartment owner (the offer is in another city).
Yes. I made a serious mistake in not waiting until I have the fully signed contract before sending notice to my current company and apartment owner. So please, please not criticize me on this.
What options should I have right now?
- Keep waiting. But how long?
- Can I sue them to pay for damages caused even though I don't have the fully signed contract. Damages: I lost my current job; have to find a new apartment (without a work contract, it's difficult to find one). All is because of the confirmation email ("Welcome me to their team") after they received the contract with only my signature.
I think the 2nd option can be feasible because of their email confirming "I am accepted to their team". Therefore, I made the decision to quit my current job and apartment.
If I need to get a lawyer involved, which compensation for damages is typically agreed? E.g. 3 month salary compensation?
In the worst case, laws may just say: there is no contract signed (between 2 sides); thus, no wrongdoings here and the company doesn't need to pay anything.
The location is Germany, which is typically known for strong worker-right protection.
Any help/advice is welcome. Thank you.
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Update 1:
The company relied my email, saying that there were some unforeseen structural changes within the company. This, unfortunately, rendered some parts of the contract invalid (my salary and starting date don't change, though). As a result, they would send me a new contract. They assured me (via email) that I will work with them, and receiving the fully signed contract is just a matter of time.