SECTION 1: Business Operations – NCARB Model Rules of Conduct

Question 1

What is an architect’s primary duty when practicing architecture?

Answer 1

To protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare by acting with reasonable care and competence, applying the standard skill expected of architects in the same locality.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.1)

Question 2

How must an architect act to fulfill their duty to protect the public?

Answer 2

With reasonable care and competence, applying the same level of skill used by other competent architects in the same area.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.1)

Question 3

What must an architect do regarding laws and codes during design?

Answer 3

Consider all applicable federal, state, and local building laws and regulations.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.2)

Question 4

Can an architect rely on other professionals’ advice about building laws?

Answer 4

Yes, but the architect must not knowingly design a project that violates the law, even after receiving advice.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.2)

Question 5

When may an architect provide professional services?

Answer 5

Only when they and any collaborators have the necessary knowledge and skills in the specific technical areas involved.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.3)

Question 6

Can an architect practice if their professional competence is impaired?

Answer 6

No, if the Board judges the architect’s competence is substantially impaired, they are not allowed to practice.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.4)

Question 7

Who should assess whether an architect is professionally impaired?

Answer 7

A qualified professional must perform the assessment of impairment.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 1.4)

Question 8

Can an architect accept payment from more than one party on the same project?

Answer 8

Only if all parties are fully informed and have waived the conflict in writing.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.1)

Question 9

Can an architect accept money from product suppliers for specifying their materials?

Answer 9

No, unless it’s considered customary business hospitality or product education—not compensation.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.2)

Question 10

What is considered inappropriate compensation from product suppliers?

Answer 10

Payments or incentives in return for specifying or endorsing their products—excluding customary hospitality or product education.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.2)

Question 11

When must an architect disclose a conflict of interest?

Answer 11

Before performing services, and only proceed if all parties waive the conflict in writing.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.3)

Question 12

What are two examples of a conflict of interest under Rule 2.3?

Answer 12

(a) Having or acquiring a financial or other interest in the project or participants; (b) Having a relationship that could impair professional judgment.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.3)

Question 13

How must an architect behave when interpreting contract documents or judging performance?

Answer 13

They must act impartially, even if selected by the parties to do so.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.4)

Question 14

What kind of relationship is prohibited between an architect and their AXP candidate?

Answer 14

Any relationship that would interfere with the objectivity of the architect’s evaluation.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.5)

Question 15

Can an architect serving in a public role accept gifts?

Answer 15

No, not if the gift or payment is intended to influence their professional judgment.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 2.6)

Question 16

Can an architect make misleading or false statements?

Answer 16

No. Architects must not make misleading, deceptive, or false statements.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.1)

Question 17

What must an architect disclose when making public statements on architectural matters?

Answer 17

Whether they are being compensated or have an economic interest in the issue.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.2)

Question 18

Can an architect exaggerate their qualifications or their firm’s?

Answer 18

No. Architects must accurately represent their qualifications, capabilities, and experience.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.3)

Question 19

Can an architect overstate their role in a project?

Answer 19

No. They must not misrepresent or overstate their responsibility for work they are claiming credit for.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.4)

Question 20

What must an architect do if a client or employer makes an illegal and unsafe decision against the architect’s advice?

Answer 20

(a) Refuse to consent, (b) Report it to code officials, (c) Withdraw from the project unless resolved.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.5)

Question 21

What is an architect’s obligation when applying for or renewing licensure?

Answer 21

To provide complete and accurate material facts when requested by the Board.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.6)

Question 22

Can an architect sign false verification documents for licensure?

Answer 22

No. Architects must not sign or assist with any false or misleading licensure applications.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.7)

Question 23

What must an architect do if they know about a licensure candidate’s qualifications?

Answer 23

Cooperate with the candidate, the Board, and/or NCARB by responding appropriately and promptly.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.8)

Question 24

What must an architect do if they know another architect is violating laws or rules?

Answer 24

Report the violation to the Board—it is a professional duty.

(NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 3.9)

Question 25

Can an architect violate laws related to their practice?

Answer 25

No. Architects must not violate any U.S. laws that materially relate to their practice. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 4.1)

Question 26

Is it acceptable for an architect to act fraudulently or disregard others' rights?

Answer 26

No. Architects must not engage in fraud or willful disregard of the rights of others. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 4.2)

Question 27

Can an architect assist a client in illegal or fraudulent actions?

Answer 27

No. Architects must not help a client engage in conduct they know or should know is illegal or fraudulent. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 4.3)

Question 28

Must architects comply with licensing laws in all U.S. jurisdictions?

Answer 28

Yes. Architects must follow licensing regulations in all jurisdictions where they practice, and can face discipline for violations in any state. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 4.4)

Question 29

Can an architect offer gifts to influence a public official?

Answer 29

No. Offering or making payments or gifts to influence an official’s judgment is prohibited. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 4.5)

Question 30

Can an employer-architect be disciplined for violating workers’ rights laws?

Answer 30

Yes. An employer found to have violated labor laws related to harassment, discrimination, or compensation may be subject to discipline. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 4.6)

Question 31

When may an architect sign and seal technical submissions?

Answer 31

Only when those submissions were prepared under their responsible control, unless exceptions in Rules 5.2 or 5.3 apply. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 5.1)

Question 32

Can an architect seal documents provided by suppliers or consultants?

Answer 32

Yes, if the architect has reviewed the information, trusts its accuracy, and it’s being incorporated into their technical submissions. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 5.2)

Question 33

Can an architect seal prototypical documents from another architect?

Answer 33

Yes, but only if the documents are reviewed, meet jurisdictional requirements, and are incorporated into the architect's own submissions. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 5.3)

Question 34

What is the duty of an AXP Supervisor to a candidate?

Answer 34

To reasonably assist the candidate in proper and timely documentation of their experience. ## Footnote (NCARB Rules of Conduct, Rule 6.1)