Architects: New Code of Ethics 2024. Summary and new features

Approved by CNAPPC (National Council of Architects, Planners, Landscapers, Conservators), the new Architects' Code of Conduct, which came into force on 2nd December, introduces several new features for professionals within the industry. 

Code of Ethics 2024: Who is it for? 

The new Code of Ethics is aimed at Italian architects, planners, landscape architects, conservators, junior architects and junior planners. 

Summary 

Even in the Preamble, as we shall see, there is a strong focus on issues such as gender equality, and also on Artificial Intelligence. There has also been an adjustment to the law on fair compensation, while sanctions have been softened in some cases and strengthened in others. Finally, there has been a tightening of the double mandate rule for Councillors of the Orders. 

Preamble 

Even in the Preamble to the text, there is a reference to the importance of gender equality in architecture and of an inclusive and respectful working environment. This is followed by a clear reference to a (professional) commitment to “use AI in an ethical and responsible manner, respecting the principles of transparency, fairness and confidentiality.” It follows that the use of AI in work projects should be aimed at promoting “quality, the safety and the well-being of the user.” 

Obligations 

The first change is contained in Article 4, which specifies that failure by Members of the Order to pay even one single annual contribution constitutes a disciplinary offence: this entails the sanction of indefinite suspension until administrative compliance.  

Training and Sanctions 

The sanctioning framework for non-compliance with training obligations has been revised, as has the adjustment of sanctions applicable according to case, which can go as far as 180 days of suspension and ultimately cancellation (exclusion from the pertinent Register and from any other regional office). However, the decision-making autonomy of the Disciplinary Boards in the calculation of sanctions is maintained. 

Third Party Payments 

Article 14 deals with relations with clients, specifying that professionals may not accept or solicit rewards or remuneration from third parties, in any form whatsoever, except where they have “devised or patented construction procedures, materials, components and furnishings proposed for the works they have designed or directed” - but in this scenario, they are nevertheless obliged to inform the client in writing.

Fair Compensation 

On one hand, Article 24 bis refers to Law No. 49 of 21st April 2023, and therefore to clients such as banking and insurance companies and their subsidiaries, public administration and “large companies” (companies with more than 50 employees or with annual revenues exceeding 10 million euros). With regard to these subjects, there is an ethical obligation to ask for or budget for a fee that is fair, equitable and proportionate to the professional service requested and “determined in application of the parameters provided for by the relevant Ministerial Decrees.” 

Still on the subject of fair remuneration, an obligation to regulate relationships in writing (not only professional, but also financial) with collaborators in writing has been added, through agreements that provide for fair and decent treatment. The intention is to regulate collaborative relationships in professional firms with transparency, regardless of their size. The fact that non-compliance with agreements made at the beginning or during the collaboration is considered a “serious breach of ethics” is an obvious attempt at protection. 

Institutional offices 

Lastly, a “serious disciplinary offence” is defined as non-compliance with the limit of consecutive electoral terms for each Regional or National Councillor of the Order.