Working with clients

The client is the end user of the work you are doing, so you should endeavour to follow their instructions.

However, in instances where the instructions are unlawful, dangerous to implement, contrary to the terms of the relevant building contract or contracts, or contrary to the terms of a resource or building consent, then you should discuss your concerns with the client and come to an arrangement.

Ensure that you make yourself available to discuss the issue, and that all parties have an opportunity to express their views and be heard. You must be respectful and act in a professional manner at all times during the process, even in situations where the other parties’ demands may seem unreasonable.

Where both parties cannot come to an agreement for moving forward, you could seek mediation or a formal resolution process.

Price work fairly and reasonably

You must not use inappropriate methods to win a contract. This includes accepting or paying bribes, unfairly estimating costs, or quoting unrealistically low prices to gain a job and then adding on extra costs once work has commenced in order to make up costs. If you become aware that there will be additional costs, then advise your client and obtain their agreement before incurring those costs. It is best practice to do this in writing.

Cashbacks and declaring and managing conflicts of interest

Under the code of ethics, you must declare and manage actual or potential conflicts of interest appropriately. If receiving cash back for monies spent on materials is a key driver in your decision to choose a certain product, then you must disclose this to your client.