The regulator has outlined six core standards for professionalism and is seeking feedback on new draft guidance supporting the updated code
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has published the final version of the latest update to the Architects Code of Conduct and Practice, which will take effect from 1 September. The revised code sets out the professional expectations for all UK-registered architects and replaces the existing version in place since 2017.
The code is framed around six standards that ARB states are designed to define modern professionalism in the sector: honesty and integrity, public interest, competence, professional practice, communication and collaboration, and respect.
Each standard is supported by examples to aid architects in understanding how they can be demonstrated in practice.
Alan Kershaw, chair of ARB, said: “The new code represents a significant step forward in defining what it means to be an architect today.
“It reflects the values that the public rightly expects of the profession, and provides a practical framework that will help architects make decisions with confidence and integrity. We strongly encourage all architects to view the new code on the ARB website and to familiarise themselves with the new standards before the code comes into effect on 1 September.”
The revised code follows a public consultation in 2024, which sought views on the proposed standards. ARB reported strong support for the changes, with the highest level of agreement for the ‘honesty and integrity’ standard, endorsed by 89% of respondents.
The Architects Act 1997 requires ARB to maintain and periodically review a code of professional conduct for architects. In addition to the new code, ARB is also developing supporting guidance to assist architects in interpreting the standards in practice.
The second tranche of this draft guidance has now been published for consultation and covers managing conflicts of interest, managing finances, and raising concerns and whistleblowing. The consultation period will run for six weeks.
The finalised supporting guidance will be published in full ahead of the September 2025 implementation date.
The new code is available here.
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