Prior to the AIBC’s transition to the Professional Governance Act (“PGA”), the Bylaw Review Committee (now Professional Standards Advisory Group) had been engaged in a comprehensive review of both the AIBC Bylaws and the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Their task included addressing substantive subject matter areas, including modernizing professional standards, as well as routine bylaw amendments. With the PGA transition completed and new bylaws in place, the Professional Standards Advisory Group (PSAG), has continued its review of the Professional Standards that make up the AIBC’s new Schedule A: Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (“Code of Ethics”). Note that during the PGA transition, the ethical and practice standards in the Code of Ethics were renamed from Bylaws and Council Rulings to Professional Standards.
Registrants are reminded that under the PGA, the Board is authorized to amend the AIBC Bylaws and the Code of Ethics, with final approval required from the Superintendent of Professional Governance. Registrants are encouraged to actively participate in modernization of Professional Standards by reviewing material and submitting feedback.
Proposed New Professional Standard regarding Duty to Communicate with Authorities Having Jurisdiction
The PSAG is recommending a new Professional Standard that requires Registrants to communicate adequately and in a timely manner with authorities having jurisdiction.
The new Professional Standard addresses an issue identified by AIBC Practice Advice of a pattern of Architects failing to respond to, or adequately communicate with, local governments, particularly when they are acting as applicants for permits on behalf of Clients.
This proposed standard still allows for context, discretion, and professional judgement. It is not intended to prescribe any ‘respond no later than’ deadlines nor content of communication, but instead to confirm that reasonable communication with authorities is a professional obligation. This proposed new standard will supplement existing Professional Standard 5.4 which requires Registrants to communicate adequately with Clients.
Proposed New Professional Standard and supplementary commentary (PDF)
Registrant Feedback
The AIBC Board invites your review of the proposed amendments to AIBC Bylaws and encourages your consultation participation.
Feedback can be submitted to the AIBC by emailing bylawfeedback@aibc.ca. In addition, an online feedback form is available for Registrants to share their comments.
The amendments and any feedback received will be presented to the AIBC Board for final approval. If approved, the Bylaws will be filed with the OSPG. Once in effect, Registrants and the public will be notified.