The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has announced the publication of a new version of the Architects Code of Conduct and Practice, which sets out the professional standards expected of all registered architects in the UK.
The updated Code will come into effect on 1 September 2025, replacing the current version that has been in place since 2017.
Alan Kershaw, ARB Chair 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.”
Under the Architects Act 1997, ARB is legally required to publish a code of conduct and practice for architects, and to keep that code under review. The new Code is based on six Standards that define professionalism for modern UK architects:
- Honesty and integrity
- Public interest
- Competence
- Professional practice
- Communication and collaboration
- Respect
Each Standard is underlined with examples of how architects can demonstrate their commitment to upholding it. ARB consulted on the new Code and Standards in 2024, and published its analysis of the consultation earlier this year. Each of the proposed Standards received strong support from consultation respondents, with the highest levels of agreement on ‘Honesty and integrity’ (agreed by 89% of respondents).
To support architects in interpreting and applying the new Code, ARB is also publishing supporting guidance addressing specific topics. Draft guidance is being published and consulted on in phases, and today ARB has made available the second tranche of draft guidance for consultation, covering the following topics:
- Managing Conflicts of Interest
- Managing Finances
- Raising Concerns and Whistleblowing
The consultation on this tranche will run for six weeks. The first tranche – covering Dealing with Complaints, Professional Indemnity Insurance, and Terms of Engagement – was consulted on earlier this year between 26 February and 9 April 2025.
