Illegal Practice
The Architectural Institute of British Columbia (the “AIBC”)
is mandated under the Architects
Act (the “Act”) to regulate the
practice of architecture.
This responsibility includes investigating and taking appropriate
steps when non-architects illegally offer or provide architectural
services or represent themselves as architects. Concern for the
public interest is of primary importance. The Act is
intended to protect the public from individuals and businesses
holding themselves out as architects or otherwise implying that
they are registered with the AIBC: see Sections 27, 59, 60, 63,
66, 67, 68 and 84 of the Act.
The Illegal Practice Committee assists AIBC staff in investigating
alleged contraventions of the Act that involve misrepresentation
and the illegal practice of architecture.
For further information, consult one of the AIBC Bulletins or documents
linked below:
AIBC
Bulletin 30: The Architects Act of British Columbia – Enforcement
Procedures describes the types of contraventions that
attract the attention of the Committee. It also outlines the enforcement
procedures and penalties available to the AIBC in the event of
such contraventions.
AIBC
Bulletin 31: Buildings Requiring the Services of an Architect
describes the types of buildings that require the services of
an architect under the Act.
AIBC
Bulletin 32: Right to Title: The Legal Use of “Architect”
and Derivative Titles describes the AIBC’s interpretation of acceptable terminology
including use of “architect”, “architecture”
as well as related descriptive terms and designations.
Does
that Project need an Architect? is an information sheet
that emphasizes that the Act is law of general application
across the province.
Click here
to see the recent Illegal Practice Resolutions
To report a possible infraction of the Act, we ask that
you:
-
Document the alleged infraction. Digital photographs of
a project sign, photocopies of permit applications, business
cards, title blocks, articles, relevant correspondence,
and/or drawings are very useful. It is extremely
important and helpful that as much pertinent information
as possible accompany the inquiry, including contact information
for the alleged contravener; and
-
Submit your information in writing to Jackie Buchan, Illegal
Practice Coordinator. Jackie can be reached at:
Architectural Institute of British Columbia
Suite 100 - 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2N5
T: (604) 683-8588 Ext. 316
F: (604) 683-8568
E: jbuchan@aibc.ca
|
Classifieds