The SACQSP Code of Conduct establishes clear ethical and professional guidelines to be followed by registered persons and practices. Its primary purpose is to uphold the dignity, credibility, and reputation of the quantity surveying profession by promoting high standards of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. It also provides a framework for consistent and fair practice, identifying improper behaviour and enabling disciplinary measures when necessary. By setting these benchmarks, the Code protects both the profession and the public interest.

The Code applies to all individuals and entities registered with the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP), including professional and candidate Quantity Surveyors, as well as quantity surveying practices. It ensures that everyone involved in the profession operates under uniform ethical and professional standards, regardless of their level of experience or specific role.

Improper conduct refers to any action or behaviour that violates the expected standards of professionalism outlined in the Code. This includes unethical practices such as dishonesty, corruption, fraud, negligence, failure to comply with the Code or the Quantity Surveying Profession Act or engaging in actions that damage the reputation of the profession.

No, the Code of Conduct does not supersede the Quantity Surveying Profession Act (Act 49 of 2000). The Act holds the highest authority and takes precedence in cases of conflict. Similarly, if a voluntary association’s code conflicts with the SACQSP Code, the SACQSP Code will prevail, ensuring consistency in ethical and professional standards.

The Code establishes minimum standards for professional conduct and ethical behaviour. It provides guidance on maintaining competence, accountability, and integrity while promoting continuous professional development (CPD) to keep skills current. By addressing professional incompetence or unethical behaviour through disciplinary actions, the Code ensures that the profession remains credible and trustworthy.

A Candidate Quantity Surveyor is an individual registered under section 19(2)(b) of the Act, undergoing supervised training and mentorship by a registered professional Quantity Surveyor. This training aims to develop the candidate’s practical skills, technical knowledge, and ethical understanding to meet the standards required for professional registration.

A Quantity Surveying Practice is any business providing quantity surveying services, led and operated by a registered professional Quantity Surveyor. It can take various forms, such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, or multidisciplinary practices. The practice must comply with the SACQSP Code, ensuring that all quantity surveying work is managed and supervised by a registered professional to uphold industry standards.

A Voluntary Association is a professional organisation recognised under section 25 of the Act, formed to represent and support its members. While it aligns with the ethical and professional standards set by the SACQSP Code, it may provide additional resources such as training, networking opportunities, and advocacy for the profession. Membership in such associations complements adherence to the SACQSP’s regulatory framework.

Complaints are addressed through a structured disciplinary process as outlined in the Quantity Surveying Profession Act. This includes investigating allegations, appointing a disciplinary tribunal, holding hearings, and imposing penalties or corrective actions if necessary. The process is designed to be fair and transparent, ensuring accountability while protecting the reputation of the profession.

Improper conduct involves unethical actions, such as fraud, dishonesty, or other behaviours that breach the Code or Act, potentially damaging the profession’s reputation. Professional incompetence, on the other hand, refers to the inability to perform duties to the expected standard due to a lack of skill, knowledge, or diligence.

To establish a practice, a registered professional Quantity Surveyor must seek prior written approval from the SACQSP. The practice must notify the Council within 30 days of establishment, providing details such as the practice’s address, type, and the names of partners or directors. Any subsequent changes to these details must also be reported within 30 days to maintain compliance with the Code.

Yes, the SACQSP Code mandates that the quantity surveying division of a multidisciplinary practice is under the direct and full-time control of a registered professional Quantity Surveyor. This ensures that all work adheres to professional standards and is carried out ethically and competently.

Any changes in the structure, address, or ownership of a practice must be reported to the SACQSP within 30 days. This requirement allows the Council to maintain accurate records and ensure the practice remains compliant with professional regulations.

Yes, all quantity surveying practices, including those run by sole proprietors, must prominently display the names and registration statuses of principals or directors on their official letterheads. This promotes transparency and instils confidence in the professionalism of the practice.

Upon request from a client, a practice must provide detailed information about its legal structure, staffing levels, professional indemnity insurance, and the supervision provided by registered professionals. This transparency helps clients make informed decisions and builds trust in the services provided.

The SACQSP strictly prohibits registered professionals from forming partnerships or professional relationships with unregistered individuals, except under specific conditions approved by the Council. This policy ensures that all partners meet the ethical and technical standards required of registered professionals and prevents the delegation of professional responsibilities to individuals who are not bound by SACQSP’s Code of Conduct. Registered professionals may partner with members of closely allied professions (e.g., architects, engineers), provided these individuals are registered with their respective councils. Unapproved partnerships can lead to disciplinary action and damage to the profession’s credibility.

The core principles include maintaining professionalism, integrity, and honesty in all actions; adhering to applicable laws and regulations; avoiding behaviours that could harm the profession’s reputation; and acting in the public interest. Registered persons are also obligated to demonstrate fairness, transparency, and diligence, ensuring their work is ethically sound and aligned with industry standards.

Registered persons may only accept gratuities or commissions if explicitly authorised in writing by their client or employer. Unauthorised acceptance is deemed unethical and constitutes a breach of the SACQSP Code. This ensures that professional judgment remains impartial and free from undue influence.

Any potential conflict of interest must be disclosed in writing to the relevant parties, such as clients or employers. This includes financial interests, relationships, or benefits that could influence professional judgment. Addressing conflicts openly ensures transparency and protects the integrity of the profession.

Registered persons must respect intellectual property rights by seeking proper authorisation before using or reproducing copyrighted materials. They must also safeguard any intellectual property created during their work to prevent unauthorised use, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Professionals must retain comprehensive project records—such as contracts, calculations, and drawings—for a minimum of five years after project completion, or longer if required by law. These records must be accessible to authorized parties and serve as evidence of compliance and accountability.

No, registered professionals must personally inspect and review all work before approving or certifying it. This ensures compliance with required standards and protects both the professional and the client from potential risks. Approving uninspected work may lead to legal, financial, or reputational repercussions.

No, Candidate Quantity Surveyors must work under the direct and continuous supervision of a registered professional Quantity Surveyor. This mentorship ensures that candidates acquire the necessary skills and experience for professional registration. Independent practice by a Candidate QS violates SACQSP regulations and can jeopardise future registration.

Registered professionals are responsible for assessing the competency of individuals before delegating tasks. They must provide clear instructions, appropriate guidance, and ongoing oversight to ensure the work meets professional standards. Ultimately, the registered professional remains fully accountable for the outcomes of delegated tasks.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is mandatory to ensure that registered persons maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge. Activities such as attending workshops, completing courses, or participating in professional events help professionals stay current with industry developments. Non-compliance with CPD requirements may result in suspension or deregistration.

A registered professional may review another’s work only under specific conditions: with the original professional’s written consent, if their engagement has been formally terminated by the client, or as part of a legal or formal process. Reviews must be conducted impartially and in accordance with SACQSP guidelines.

Candidate Quantity Surveyors are subject to specific restrictions to ensure they work within their level of training and competence. These restrictions include:

• No Independent Practice: Candidates cannot practice independently or manage projects without supervision.
• Mandatory Supervision: All work performed by a Candidate QS must be overseen and approved by a registered professional Quantity Surveyor.
• Prohibited Roles: They are not allowed to sign off on official documents, such as cost reports, valuations, or payment certificates, as these require professional accountability.

These limitations ensure that candidates gain the necessary experience while maintaining high standards of service for clients.

No, Candidate Quantity Surveyors are not permitted to hold positions of ownership or control within quantity surveying consultancy practices at all. Specifically, Candidates cannot act as directors, partners, trustees, or shareholders in a consultancy practice. They must work under the direct supervision of a registered professional Quantity Surveyor at all times. This ensures that only fully qualified and registered professionals manage the practice, upholding professional standards and protecting clients’ interests. Violating this rule can lead to disciplinary action and may impact the candidate’s future registration prospects.

When replacing a Quantity Surveyor on an existing project, the SACQSP Code of Conduct requires:

• Written Confirmation: The incoming Quantity Surveyor must ensure that the client has formally terminated the engagement of the original QS.
• Settlement of Obligations: The client must confirm that all financial and contractual obligations to the original QS have been fully settled before proceeding with the replacement.
• Professional Integrity: The new QS must conduct the transition transparently and ethically, avoiding actions that could unfairly prejudice the original QS. These requirements safeguard professional relationships and ensure ethical compliance during project transitions.