The AIBC continues its review and modernization of both the AIBC Bylaws and the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (“Code of Ethics”). The Professional Standards Advisory Group (“PSAG”) supports this process by specifically reviewing and suggesting updates to the Professional Standards that make up the AIBC’s Code of Ethics.
Registrants are reminded that under the Professional Governance Act, 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 Standards
UPDATE: As of April 21, 2026, the below Professional Standards are in effect.
The Professional Standards Advisory Group recommended updates to the following Professional Standards in the Code of Ethics, which are relatively minor in nature:
- Professional Standard 2.1 requires that Registrants protect confidential client information. The proposed amendments are to commentary only to include a reminder to maintain confidentiality of client information throughout bidding processes, and also when using social media. In addition, Registrants are reminded to educate Architectural Firm staff regarding client confidentiality.
- Professional Standard 6.2 requires each office (including branch offices) that offer architectural services to have an Architect available to provide Direct Supervision. It is proposed that this standard be deleted/repealed as it is outdated and reflects a time when working remotely was not commonplace. The remaining standards related to supervision are sufficient to protect the public. Commentary from this standard will be moved to Professional Standard 6.1, which addresses Direct Supervision.
- Professional Standard 6.1 establishes the requirement that Architects providing Direct Supervision of non-Architects are accountable and responsible for all architectural services provided. The proposed amendment is to commentary only to import and retain the guidance from repealed Professional Standard 6.2 (above), which is still generally applicable.
- Professional Standard 6.4 requires that all formal presentations to an authority be made by an Architect, or under their Direct Supervision. The proposed amendment clarifies that if the Architectural Firm is presenting the material, an Architect needs to make the formal presentation, or provide Direct Supervision. The current wording has created confusion as presentations on ‘architectural matters’ to authorities can and do occur by others. The intention behind this standard is to ensure that when an architectural project is being advanced in public by a Firm, an Architect is present.
- Professional Standard 8.5 establishes the requirement that Architects transmitting documents electronically must apply their Seal with an AIBC-approved Digital Certificate. The proposed amendment is to commentary only to reflect the corporate name change of the AIBC’s digital seal provider from “Notarius” to “Portage CyberTech”. Note: This amendment was not put forth as part of the April 21, 2026 Bylaws, and will be included in future updates.
Review the AIBC Bylaws and Professional Standards Amendment Chart (PDF)
Registrant Feedback
The AIBC Board encouraged Registrant participation in the consultation process for the proposed amendments to the AIBC Bylaws and updated Professional Standards. The deadline to submit feedback and comments was March 31, 2026. All feedback received was considered by the the AIBC Board and AIBC staff.
The amendments and any feedback received were presented to the AIBC Board for final approval.
Effective Date
Approved by the AIBC Board in April 2026, the Bylaw amendments were submitted to the Office of the Superintendent of Professional Governance for approval and filing with the minister. After review, the Superintendent declared the Bylaw amendments in force, effective April 21, 2026. The updated AIBC Bylaws (PDF) are now available on the AIBC website.