Q: Can my employer withhold my wages because I am living in his property while working on a project he requested?
My husband and I are employed by a company that is opening a Marijuana farm and dispensary in Puerto Rico. I previously worked for him on other residential projects and he asked me to please move to San Juan temporarily to assist him on finishing some uncompleted projects he had. He stated that my family could stay in rooms that he has at his warehouse where he manufactures doors and windows as well as store all company equipment. He said that we could use his rooms along with other employees. This also came after I completed a project for him in Mayaguez (I live in Cabo Rojo). Upon completion of the Mayaguez project we left for San Juan the next day. Payment for the Mayaguez project has failed to occur, and now 6 weeks into San Juan project he still hasnt paid any wages to me and says that he doesnt have to because of housing and utility costs, and because I use company vehicles for work (only for work).
A: You should contact a Puerto Rico employment attorney to discuss your situation in further detail. While employers can sometimes take deductions from your pay for the value of housing and other expenses they offer, you still must be paid for the work you perform.
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