The Acting Registrar of the Architects Registration Council of Ghana, Mrs. Stella N.D. Arthiabah has cautioned the public to beware of unauthorized persons illegally practicing architecture in the country.

In a statement she issued recently, Mrs Arthiabah said certain individuals and firms,posing as Architects or Architectural Firms, present themselves to unsuspecting clients and submit proposals for consideration for architectural design and consultancy services.

“Such practices do not only affect the proper planning and adherence to building regulations in the country but also pose great danger to our society since these individuals lack the required coaching to do proper work”, she said.  

Mrs. Arthiabah cited Part 3, Paragraph 20 of the Architects Decree 1969 (NLCD 357); Part 1, Section 6 of the National Building Regulations 1996 (LI 1630); and other related legislations; which make clear reference to the practice and engagement of architects and the allied professionals.

“The Architect is the lead design professional and has the capacity and training in the art and science of building design and the design of spaces in general.”

She urged the public to engage only registered architects and architectural firms for architectural services, ensure that Statement of Work (SOW) for consultancy services is clearly stated to avoid any ambiguities, request for proof of valid Practice Certificates from consultants and also seek assistance with the Council or the Ghana Institute of Architects when developing SOW for building projects. 

Mrs. Arthiabah noted that the authorized architects have the capacity to embark on core architectural services including project feasibility/viability studies, concept /ideas development, building design and detailing, construction supervision, contract administration, project management, rehabilitation and refurbishment, conservation, interior design, landscape design, building survey and facilitating planning approvals

The Architects Registration Council of Ghana is mandated by the Architects Decree of 1969 (NLCD 357) to control the practice of Architecture in Ghana, and prescribe and uphold standards of professional conduct and ethics of the practice in the interest of the general public.