Consultation on draft guidance for the Architects Code of Conduct - Tranche three

Overview

Professionalism lies at the heart of architectural practice, underpinning the trust placed in architects by clients, colleagues, and the wider public. Professionalism is about more than technical competence - it encompasses a commitment to ethical decision-making, accountability, and the responsible exercise of professional judgement.

Under the Architects Act, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) is required to publish a code setting the standards of professional conduct and practice expected of all persons on the Register of Architects, and to keep that code under review. ARB meets this requirement through the publication of the Architects Code of Conduct and Practice, otherwise known as the Architects Code.

The Architects Code is a positive statement of what professionalism and ethics mean to architects. It explains in clear terms the behaviours and high standards that all architects are expected to meet.

ARB has now published a new version of the Architects Code.

Guidance and this consultation

The new Code is supported with guidance for how architects can apply the Standards in more specific contexts and in relation to particular topics. Draft guidance is being published and consulted on in phases.

We are now publishing draft versions of five further guidance documents for consultation. 

The draft guidance documents we are consulting on in this tranche are:

• Building Safety
• Environmental Sustainability
• Leadership
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Mentoring

We are inviting views on these proposals from any interested individuals and organisations.

The consultation will close on Thursday 14 May 2026.