As a self-governing professional organization, the AIBC is authorized by the provincial government to establish, monitor and enforce standards of conduct and ethics for its member architects, firms, associates and temporary licensees. The core standards are documented in the AIBC Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (PDF).
If you believe a registrant of the AIBC (architect, architectural firm, associate or temporary licensee) has behaved in an unprofessional manner, contravened the Architects Act or bylaws, or is otherwise incompetent or unfit to practice, you can make a complaint to the AIBC.
- Read disciplinary outcomes on the Disciplinary Decision webpage.
- Read anonymous summaries of completed remedial recommendations on the Remedial Recommendations webpage.
Before Making a Complaint
If you have questions or concerns about an architect’s conduct, normally the first step is to talk to the architect. Misunderstandings can happen when communication breaks down. If you are unable to resolve the issue, and believe there is a professional conduct or competency concern, please contact the AIBC’s Professional Conduct department – see “Making a Complaint”, below.
It is important to understand that the AIBC cannot address all disputes or concerns. For example, the AIBC cannot insist that an architect remain on or withdraw from a project, or do something specific on a project. We cannot reduce an architect’s fees or compel an architect to pay you money. If you believe your architect made a mistake and wish to obtain compensation or other remedy, you should consider seeking legal advice about your options. The AIBC’s professional conduct process is separate from any legal proceedings you may choose to pursue.
Making a Complaint
Complaints must be made in writing and should adequately describe the circumstances and specific concerns about the architect’s conduct. The AIBC does not, in most cases, investigate complaints made anonymously.
For more information about what information the AIBC needs in order to investigate a complaint, please review the process outlined below, consult the AIBC Professional Conduct Complaint Form (PDF), or contact the AIBC’s Professional Conduct and Illegal Practice Officer at jgibbs@aibc.ca or 604.683.8588 ext. 316.
Professional Conduct Process
The AIBC’s professional conduct process is governed by the Architects Act and by AIBC Bylaws 37.0 to 37.42. A brief overview is provided below.
1. COMPLAINT RECEIVED
2. INVESTIGATION COMMITTEE: Investigation and Decision
3. DISCIPLINARY STAGE
Supporting Documentation
- AIBC Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (PDF)
- Rules for the Professional Conduct Process (PDF) | Note: As of August 2016, the Rules for the Professional Conduct Process were replaced by AIBC Bylaws 37.0 through 37.42. New procedural rules authorized by these bylaws are in development. Readers should refer to the bylaws (PDF).
- AIBC Professional Conduct Complaint Form (PDF)
AIBC Contact
Jamie Gibbs, Professional Conduct and Illegal Practice Officer at jgibbs@aibc.ca or 604.683.8588 x316.