In March 2020, the Board commissioned an  independent review of ARB’s processes and procedures when investigating a complaint about someone on our Register. Among other things the review included an examination of the Investigations and Professional Conduct Committee Rules and all associated guidance. While the review did not identify any serious concerns it did highlight areas which would benefit from a modernised and refreshed approach.

Following those recommendations, we have reviewed and rewritten the Investigations and Professional Conduct Committee Rules and two key guidance documents: the Acceptance Criteria for investigating a complaint, and the Sanctions Guidance for use by the Professional Conduct Committee when imposing sanctions. The proposed changes seek to address the unduly complex and inconsistent language within the Rules, to modernise our approach, and improve the accessibility and transparency of the process.

We are now consulting on the proposed changes to understand whether we have achieved those aims and if any further changes could be made. While we must work within the strictures of the Architects Act and other relevant law, we are particularly keen to hear how we can make the investigations process more transparent and understandable for those involved in it. We therefore welcome input from architects on the proposed changes, including those who have had experience of ARB’s investigatory procedures.

If you would like to read more about the proposed changes and contribute to the consultation you can do so through our dedicated consultations webpage here.