The ARB is required to issue such a code by virtue of section 13 of the Architects Act 1997. The new Code came into effect in September 2025 and replaces the previous version which had been in place since 2017.
The new Code sets out the professional standards expected of all registered architects in the UK. It is stated to be 'a positive statement of what professionalism and ethics mean for an architect' and is intended to '… explain to members of the public the behaviours they can expect from architects'.
The new Standards
The new Code consists of six standards, each of which is stated to be of equal importance 'and architects are accountable for always meeting them'. The six standards are:
1. Honesty and Integrity
Architects must be honest and act with integrity. Public confidence in architects will be maintained only when they act with integrity in all their actions and decisions.
2. Public Interest
Architects must act in the public interest and in a way that supports the environment and prevents harm to others. Architects' responsibilities are wider than those to themselves and their clients and they must prioritise the public interest by demonstrating respect for life, the law and the environment.
3. Competence
Architects must be competent to carry out the work they do. They must maintain and develop their competence to deal with an ever-changing built environment by committing to continuous professional development.
4. Professional Practice
Architects must carry out their work effectively, exercising skill and diligence. They must ensure that their work is 'managed effectively and to a high standard'. They must employ 'robust business practices and responsible financial management'.
5. Communication and collaboration
Architects must communicate effectively and collaborate with others. This is considered 'essential to delivering successful outcomes'. This involves 'actively listening, sharing information transparently and working respectfully with clients, colleagues and other stakeholders' which will 'build trust, resolve challenges and achieve shared goals'.
6. Respect
Architects must treat others with respect. This is fundamental to building trust and fostering positive relationships. By promoting open-mindedness and inclusive practices, architects can create environments where all ideas and individuals are valued, contributing to a collaborative and innovative profession.
Meeting the new Standards
The Standards are supported by examples of how architects can meet them. While compliance with the examples is not mandatory, any architect departing from them may be called upon to justify how they meet the Standards in those circumstances.
The Standards apply to all UK registered architects 'wherever they work and in whichever field they specialise'. The new Code states that 'A registered architect working in a country which has its own accepted standards of professional conduct for architects must also meet those standards'. It is not clear what happens in circumstances where the new Code and those "accepted standards" may not be aligned.
The new Code 'does not seek to repeat legal obligations, or requirements set out in regulations or guidelines elsewhere'. Architects must still comply with the law and regulations of any jurisdiction in which they practice.
Guidance
The new Code is currently supplemented with Guidance in some areas, such as dealing with complaints, professional indemnity insurance and terms of engagement. Guidance on other topics such as managing conflicts of interest and raising concerns and whistleblowing are currently in draft. Other guidance on Building Safety, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Leadership, Mentoring and Sustainability are to be developed.
Comment
In a fast-changing world, both inside and outside the built environment, it is important that the professions which operate within it review and update their standards and requirements from time to time.
ARB say that the new Code has been influenced by various things, including major events such as the Grenfell Tower disaster, the climate emergency, and evolving attitudes towards equality, diversity, and inclusion. These are said to have 'reshaped the regulatory landscape'. The new Code reflects these changes and 'aligns with contemporary public and professional expectations'.
The new Code states that the ARB Conduct Committee will take the new Code into account in any disciplinary proceedings brought before the Committee. However, it stresses that 'not every failure to meet the Standards will give rise to disciplinary proceedings'. This highlights that it's important that those who engage architects should act reasonably when dealing with them and be realistic about what they can expect from their architects.
