New ARB Code of Conduct: What Architects Need to Know‼️

On 1st September 2025, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) introduced a new Code of Conduct that applies to all UK-registered architects, wherever they practice. This marks one of the most significant updates to professional standards in recent years.

Why the Code Changed:

The reform responds to several major challenges shaping the profession today:

• Building safety in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster.

• Climate change, requiring stronger focus on sustainability.

• Equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) as professional duties.

• Public expectations, informed by independent research.

• Legal requirements, particularly the Building Safety Act 2022.

ARB consulted widely—through public surveys, workshops, and professional feedback—before finalising the new Code.

From 11 Standards to 6 Principles:

The old 11 standards have been replaced with six clear, outcomes-focused principles:

1. Honesty and Integrity

2. Public Interest

3. Competence

4. Professional Practice

5. Communication and Collaboration

6. Respect

These are written in plain language and supported by practical examples, making them easier to apply across all career stages.

What’s New?

• Building Safety: Now central to the Code, aligning with new legislation.

• Sustainability: Woven into multiple standards, reflecting the climate emergency.

• EDI: Elevated from good practice to professional obligation.

• Whistleblowing: Clear rules for raising concerns, with legal protections.

• Accountability: Architects must maintain continuous professional development, follow ARB guidance, and report unsafe practices.

Guidance Notes:

To support the Code, ARB has published practical guidance on:

• Complaints handling

• Professional indemnity insurance

• Terms of engagement

Further guidance on conflicts of interest, financial management, and whistleblowing is under consultation, with more to follow on building safety, sustainability, EDI, mentoring, and leadership.

Why It Matters:

This new framework:

• Strengthens public trust in architects.

• Ensures safety and sustainability are non-negotiable.

• Promotes a culture of collaboration, respect, and accountability.

The ARB Code is designed as a living framework, evolving with industry challenges while keeping public interest at its heart.

Tune into our epsiode 183 to learn more!