Standard 6 engages with other aspects of the Code such as Standard 2 (Competence) and Standard 4 (Competent management of your business) to ensure architects have the knowledge and skills to carry out their work to a high standard and in accordance with the contract agreed with their clients (6.1).
Standard 6.2 requires work to be carried out without undue delay as far as it is reasonable. As with anything else in life, we know that unexpected difficulties may be found during a project which causes delays and/or affects the cost of the work. In these circumstances, you should communicate with your clients effectively and keep them fully informed of progress.
This Standard also outlines the importance of remaining impartial when acting between parties or providing advice. This is particularly important if you are acting as contract administrator or project manager. You will need to balance ensuring that the work carried out by contractors and other parties are up to standard, with managing your client’s expectations.
Unfortunately, many of the complaints we receive are related to Standard 6. Common concerns involve serious or repeated errors in the work carried out, delays and increases in costs, and clients not being kept informed of progress and substantive changes to the work. We understand that mistakes do happen and so not all of those concerns will be serious enough for regulatory action. We do not get involved in disputes about contracts or fee levels, or where an architect may have been negligent. These are legal issues and must be dealt with through the courts.
So, what factors do we consider when we receive a complaint to determine its seriousness and the appropriate course of action? We consider aspects such as the degree of the harm caused, whether the architect attempted to correct the issue, and the quality of communication between the parties. If a case reaches a Professional Conduct Committee hearing, the Committee would also consider whether it was a one-off mistake or a matter which suggests a larger trend in the architect’s practice. Keeping these considerations in mind might help you better manage or avoid an issue of your own.
Sometimes these issues arise from a misunderstanding between parties. For example, a contractor might inform you they will not be able to finish their work as per the agreed schedule. If you agree to push the deadline but forget to update your client, they will be unaware of the reasons for the delay and could become frustrated. Good communication between the parties really underpins Standard 6. Good communication is good practice, can prevent misunderstandings and help reduce the risk of a complaint being raised against you.
We hope you found this advice useful. We are here to support you through regulation, and the Professional Standards team is on hand to provide further advice and guidance on professional obligations under the Code. Contact us if you have any concerns or queries and we will be happy to help.