Registered Building Surveyors are a cut above former and allegedly corrupt inspector
The former Auckland Council building inspector facing corruption and bribery charges is in no way representative of the professional standards met by Registered Building Surveyors, says the NZ Institute of Building Surveyors (NZIBS).
NZIBS members must uphold and improve the dignity, standing, and reputation of themselves, the building surveying profession and the Institute at all times, says President Darryl August.
Furthermore, NZIBS members must abide by the ethics and Code of Practice set out with the rules and regulations which recognise the important and integral roles Registered Building Surveyors play in the construction sector.
The Code of Practice is designed to ensure Institute members operate to and are seen to operate to the highest professional standards, Mr August says.
“We place a high value on the integrity of our members and require they comply with our comprehensive rules and regulations, including our strict code of ethics.
“Before becoming a Registered Building Surveyor, aspiring members must undertake a rigorous process of training, ongoing professional development, and competence.
“Therefore, it is unlikely that this person was a professionally trained building surveyor. Nevertheless, it is still disappointing to see one individual sully the good name of Registered Building Surveyors.”
Mr August applauds Auckland Council’s expeditious investigation and audit of the former inspector’s work, and hopes that the criminal proceedings do not tarnish the integral roles Registered Building Surveyors play in the provision of construction and building-related matters.
Ethics is a core value to the NZIBS membership due to the specialised nature of the profession, Mr August adds. Clients must be able to trust the profession to do the job properly.
“There are many occasions where clients may not be fully aware of building issues and the ramifications. And it’s rare for clients to be aware of every aspect.
“So, we have a duty of care to our clients. That means all our members are committed to acting with honesty, integrity, fairness and respect.
“In short, good ethical behaviour is about asking: ‘What is the right thing to do?’
“And our members should always answer that question with a high degree of satisfaction.”
