Architects Act

Our sponsoring Government department, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), has recently launched a consultation on draft amendments to the Architects Act 1997.  These changes would reform ARB’s governing legislation in two key areas: building safety and the recognition of professional qualifications.

The changes describe how the Government intends to deliver the recommendations of Dame Judith Hackitt’s Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, and includes provisions to better ensure architects’ competence. The consultation also seeks views on a new system to recognise international architecture qualifications.

This represents a unique opportunity to share your views and input into the future regulation of the profession, so don’t miss out! To find our more and to respond, visit MHCLG’s website. Make sure you contribute by 11:45pm 22 January 2021.

General Rules

Separate legislative changes have already been prepared by Government in the event the UK and the EU are unable to reach an agreement before the end of the transition period. Should these changes be made effective from 1 January 2021, some minor adjustments to ARB’s General Rules will be needed to ensure they continue to align with the revised Architects Act. We have therefore launched an additional consultation seeking views on these potential changes to the Rules.

Further information regarding the consultation, including how to respond, can be found here. Please submit your feedback before the deadline at 4pm on 18 December 2020.