Code of Conduct Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Code of Conduct?
Section 13 of the Architects Act 1997 requires the Board to issue a code laying down standards of professional conduct and practice expected of architects.  It is not a list of rules, but a guidance document.

Why has the Code been revised?
The Act requires the Board to keep the Code under review and to vary its provisions whenever it considers it appropriate to do so.  Given the last revision of the Code took place in 2002, a review was considered appropriate to ensure its relevancy.

When did the consultation take place and who was invited to respond?
The consultation opened in October 2008 and closed in January 2009.  Professional bodies, consumer and trade organisations, the public, and the profession itself were all invited to comment.  All the documents associated with the consultation and its responses can be accessed from ARB’s website

Who should be aware of the Code?
The Code is provided to all architects on the Register, and it is their individual responsibility to be aware of its contents.  If you have any queries regarding your obligations under the Code, you should contact ARB’s Professional Standards Department.

What if I practise outside the United Kingdom?
The Code lays down the standards of conduct and practice expected of architects, wherever they may live or practise.  However, it is a guidance document and those who practise outside the UK may be subject to different legislation, guidance or common practice which will influence their behaviour.  For example, local legislation may be in conflict with the Code and may provide a sound reason for taking a decision not to follow the Code

Do I need to do anything following these changes?
Although the Code has been extensively reworded and renumbered, much of the underlying substance remains the same. Although you should familiarise yourself with the whole Code, you may specifically wish to consider whether your Terms of Engagement require updating to ensure they are in line with Standard 4.4.
 
Do I have to reissue my Terms of Engagement?
No.  As the Code expects you to issue Terms of Engagement before you undertake any work, your amended Terms will only need to be issued to new clients.

What happens if I fall short of the Standards set down in the Code?
As the Code is not a set of rules, it will not automatically lead to disciplinary proceedings should you fall short of any of the standards in the Code.  However, any failure to comply with the provisions of the Code will be taken into account in event of a complaint.  Each case is judged on its own facts.

If someone complains about me, which Code will be used?
ARB will consider a complaint against whichever Code was in place at the material time.  Please note however, that where you receive a complaint after 1 January 2010, your complaints-handling procedures will be judged against Standard 10 of the new Code.