NSW Architects Code of Professional Conduct

The NSW Architects Code of Professional Conduct was introduced as a regulation under the NSW Architects Act 2003, in force from 30 June 2004.

The Code articulates guidelines for acceptable standards of professional practice for architects. It enables clients to understand the standards expected of architects and the level of accountability expected of them in the provision of architectural services. Importantly, the Code encourages a shared understanding between architects and clients of the nature, extent and cost of services and the obligations of each party.

Important features of the NSW Architects Code of Professional Conduct are that architects should:

• act fairly and ethically at all times
• have a written architect-client agreement for all work undertaken
• have adequate professional indemnity cover
• keep their professional practice up to date through participation in continuing professional development activities
• disclose any conflicts of interest
• include their registration number on all business stationery and agreements.

The NSW Architects Registration Board will have regard to the Code when investigating complaints against providers of architectural services. It will be a relevant consideration in determining what constitutes proper and ethical conduct by an architect.

An architect engaged to provide an architectural service to a client should provide the client with a copy of the Code before commencing the provision of services, or as soon as reasonably practicable after commencing.