The Architects Code of Professional Conduct establishes the professional and ethical standards expected of architects. Complying with the Code helps protect clients, building users and the broader community by promoting the competent, ethical and professional provision of architectural services. It also helps protect architects and architectural practices by reducing the risk of complaints, disputes, regulatory action and legal liability.
The Code applies to all architects, but there is no single way to comply with the Code. What compliance looks like in practice will depend on a variety of factors, including:
- type of client;
- nature of the work being undertaken;
- complexity and risk of the project and associated contractual arrangements;
- the architect’s role and extent of their professional responsibilities for the project;
- the size, structure and resources of the architectural practice.
Measures that are appropriate for a sole practitioner undertaking a small residential project may differ from those expected of an architect working within a team in a firm delivering large commercial developments under complex contractual arrangements.
This Guide is intended to assist architects and architectural practices to understand the requirements of the Code. Ultimately, each architect and architectural practice is responsible for determining the policies, systems and practices that are appropriate to their circumstances and that enable them to comply with the Code.
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