Code of Conduct

Code of Ethics

 
Within the Rules of the Institute there is a Code of Ethics to guide the professional behaviour of members:
 
"All members... are to conduct themselves having regard to high ideals of professionalism, courtesy, personal integrity and public service..." 
 

Conduct of NZIS Members

 
When you engage a member of the New Zealand Institute of Surveyors (NZIS Inc.) to carry out surveying work, you are entitled to expect the work will be carried out to the highest possible standards.

NZIS members engaged in Public Practice are required to use good business practices at all times and ensure their actions reflect only credit upon the surveying profession. Good business practice includes:

  • Conditions of Engagement
Every engagement is required to be properly constituted and acknowledged, preferably in writing, prior to commencement.  The acknowledgement should contain the details of the instructions received, the date of the commencement, the basis of the payment of fees and any other matter that may be appropriate to the circumstances.  Any variation to the conditions as may be agreed to from time to time during the term of the engagement is to be confirmed in writing.

  • Communication
Clients are to be kept fully informed and advised on a regular basis concerning the progress of the engagement, of any action required of either the client or the client's other advisers, including any further instructions or variation of instructions which may be appropriate under the circumstances. 

  • Conflict of Interest
Members are not to accept or proceed with any engagement before fully declaring to the client the existence of any conflicting business or other interests which could be deemed to be prejudicial to the interest of the client. 

  • Fees
Fees may be charged on the basis of time plus materials plus disbursements or may be derived from lump sums or quotations or tenders as agreed with the client.  In all cases the fees charged are to be fair and equitable and should reflect the extent and the circumstances of the work. 

  • Completion of Unfinished Work
Members are not allowed to review or undertake to complete the work of a fellow member or a member of any other profession for the same client without the knowledge of the member and unless it has been ascertained that the connection of the member with the work has been properly terminated in writing and:
All fees due to the member have been paid; or
Arrangements, which are suitable to both parties, have been made to pay all fees;or
Written notice has been received by the member from the client that the extent or the competence of the work or the fees are in dispute.