Revised ethical rules have been launched today by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the global professional body for chartered surveyors.
The new Rules of Conduct set out the core principles of professional practice for RICS’ regulated members and firms worldwide.
Changes include explicit requirements for firms to encourage diversity and to ensure a fair and inclusive profession, and to support all surveyors regardless of their background or differences, across the world.
The new code also sets out refreshed requirements for professionals maintaining their skills and expertise – most importantly, including new expectations for all members in respect of advice on sustainability issues, helping clients in the drive to meet targets set by governments.
The rules were set by RICS’ independent Standards and Regulation Board (SRB).
The launch follows a nine-week consultation with RICS global members, clients, and the public.
RICS says the updated rules pull a collection of documents into one code of practice, increasing clarity, and simplifying implementation.
The new code will be accompanied by a comprehensive programme of CPD and implementation support, freely available for RICS members, ahead of the rules taking effect from 2 February 2022.
Dame Janet Paraskeva, chair of SRB at RICS, said: “The advice of RICS professionals around the world underpins the successful management of our built and natural environment.
“With so many complex challenges facing decision makers, this profession’s high standards of expertise and ethical conduct have never been more important.
“Standards in professional life must evolve to reflect modern-day expectations of clients and society at large, in order to maintain confidence.
“These revised Rules of Conduct will support our members and those that depend on their advice to continue addressing the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
RICS rules of conduct:
1: Members and firms must be honest, act with integrity and comply with their professional obligations, including obligations to RICS.
2: Members and firms must maintain their professional competence and ensure that services are provided by competent individuals who have the necessary expertise.
3: Members and firms must provide good-quality and diligent service.
4: Members and firms must treat others with respect and encourage diversity and inclusion.
5: Members and firms must act in the public interest, take responsibility for their actions and act to prevent harm and maintain public confidence in the profession.
Image: Pand P Studio/Shutterstock
Read next: BAM Construction to build ‘smartest’ building in north-east England
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
