Frequently asked questions about the retention fee

Q. How were you able to keep the fee at the same level as 2011?

A. We were able to achieve this through our continued focus on efficiency-saving measures and prudent budgeting.  ARB has always operated a policy of keeping the retention fee to as low a level as possible, and by holding the fee at the same level as last year, we are able to demonstrate this commitment in a very tangible way. We are conscious of the difficulties that the profession continues to face, and while we must ensure that we deliver our statutory responsibilities, we are always looking to implement cost-saving measures wherever we can to help ease the burden on architects.

Q. How do you decide what the level of the fee should be?

A. Under the 1997 Architects Act, we are required to set an annual fee that allows us to perform and meet our responsibilities under the Act. The fee must be set at a level which allows ARB to deliver the Business Plan which is set by the Board each year. The 2012 Business Plan is available on our website. It is vital that we have the resources to undertake this work; we would be in breach of our statute if we failed to deliver.

Q. Why do you hold money in reserves?

A. It is important for any organisation to have funds available should unforeseen events arise. ARB is no exception. Current Board policy is that there should be a minimum of four months’ expenditure held in reserves. The Board can – and does – divert funds from its reserves, over and above the four-month expenditure figure, to fund specific projects. For example, we used some of the reserves to help keep the 2012 fee at the same level as that for 2011.

Q. Why do I need to pay a fee, and what do I get for my money?

A. Paying the fee means that you are legally entitled to call yourself an architect and it is effectively your licence to practise. With a protected title, you have a market edge over your unregistered and frequently unqualified competitors, who we can prosecute if we find they are using the title “architect” unlawfully.

An important part of the work we carry out on your behalf is to maintain standards. We do this by ensuring that there is a consistent level of entry to the profession through our work on prescribing qualifications. We also take action against architects who fall short of the professional standards of conduct that are expected of them.

The safeguards that are in place help to create a feeling of consumer confidence amongst members of the public – your clients and potential clients. They know that when they are engaging an architect, they will be working with a fully qualified and genuine professional.

Q. Why is there a cut-off date for payment?

A. The fee is due on 1 January each year, but under the Board’s General Rules, we must allow a 90-day period for you to make your payment. We set the cut-off date as 31 March, and we will accept payments up to and including that date. We send out the retention fee invoice in the December before the fee falls due, and we will send you a reminder if we haven’t received your fee by the midway point. Non-payment of the fee results in an architect’s name being removed from the Register. You should always pay your fee promptly to avoid this happening to you.

Of the many ways to pay the fee, paying it online is the easiest. You can choose a time and place that is most convenient for you, and we don’t make any charge if you pay by credit or debit card. You can also choose to pay your fee by direct debit. All you need do is complete a form, and we will do the rest. If you would like to pay the 2012 fee by direct debit, you can download a form from our website. You will need to return the completed form to us by 15 February 2012 to ensure that the fee is paid, but once the mandate is in place you will have peace of mind in knowing that your fee will always be paid. Call us on 020 7580 5861 to find out more, or email registrationdepartment@arb.org.uk

Q. I’m retired – why can’t I pay a reduced fee?

A. ARB is not a membership organisation that charges “subscriptions”. We are a statutory regulator and continued registration is dependent on a fee being paid. That fee allows architects to use the title in business and practice, and if someone has retired, they wouldn’t need to remain on the Register.  If you are fully retired from practice, that is, you don’t undertake any work related to the design and construction of buildings, you can still refer to yourself socially as an architect, as long as you don’t offer your services as one. Some architects wish to retain their registration in retirement which is quite acceptable, although no reduced fee can be offered.

For more information about resigning from the Register, call us on 020 7580 5861, or email registrationdepartment@arb.org.uk