The Architects Registration Board has released data on the type of complaints it has received about architects over the last five years.

The information shows that male architects over the age of 55 and working as sole practitioners or small practices are most vulnerable to having complaints made to ARB, particularly when working with domestic clients. The most common reasons for those complaints were a lack of adequate Terms of Engagement, poor communication as to the progress of a project, and the inability or unwillingness to deal with disputes appropriately.

Of the formal investigations undertaken by ARB, 88% were made against male architects (who make up 75% of the Register). Almost a third of investigations involved architects aged 55 – 64, while there were disproportionately few complaints about architects under 35 years of age.

There were further statistical anomalies. 22% of all investigations were into the conduct or competence of architects registered in Scotland, while they make up just 9% of the overall Register. There were only 12 investigations into architects who had qualified outside of the UK.

More in-depth information on the figures of ARB investigations can be found here.

While there is little that can easily be done about one’s age, gender or employment, there are simple steps architects can take to reduce the likelihood of disputes arising. All architects should familiarise themselves with the new 2017 Code of Conduct, and particularly those operating small businesses should ensure that they have adequate Terms of Engagement which are provided to clients before undertaking work. Further advice on how to avoid complaints can be found in this presentation.

If you have any questions on any of these matters, please do email professionalstandards@arb.org.uk