HKIA/ARB PA Paper 1 cheat sheet

Architects Registration Ordinance (Cap. 408) is administered by the Architects Registration Board (ARB); the Board registers architects, maintains the register, and handles disciplinary matters.

The title "Architect" (and "Registered Architect") is protected: under Cap. 408 only a registered person may use it or hold out as an architect in Hong Kong; unregistered use is an offence.

Registration requires the Board's prescribed qualifications plus experience; corporate practice of architecture must be carried on by a registered architect or an approved firm/corporation recognised under the Ordinance.

The Code of Professional Conduct is issued by ARB; breaches can trigger disciplinary inquiry, and sanctions include reprimand, conditions, suspension, or removal from the register.

Core conduct duties: competence and due care, honesty and integrity, confidentiality, avoidance of conflicts of interest, and disclosure of any interest in a project or supplier.

Advertising and publicity must not be misleading or self-laudatory; touting, fee-cutting inducements, and improper solicitation of work are prohibited.

Fees: the profession operates on agreed fees; an architect must not accept remuneration from both client and contractor for the same service, nor secret commissions.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is a registration/practice expectation; keep records of CPD hours for audit by the Board.

Professional indemnity insurance is a practical requirement for practice; the architect's liability may be contractual and in tort for negligence.

Procurement routes: traditional (design-bid-build), design-and-build, management contracting, and construction management - each allocates design responsibility and risk differently.

Typical tender sequence: prequalification, invitation, issue of tender documents, tender queries and addenda, submission, opening, evaluation, clarification/negotiation, recommendation, award.

Tender evaluation criteria must be stated in advance; assess price, programme, method, resources, and qualifications; avoid post-tender changes that undermine fair competition.

Contract sum types: lump sum, remeasurement, cost-plus, and guaranteed maximum price (GMP); choose based on design completeness and risk allocation.

Standard forms used in Hong Kong include HKIA/HKIS/HKCE joint standard forms of building contract; the contract documents order of precedence governs conflicts.

Security of payment: the Construction Industry Security of Payment Ordinance (Cap. 652) provides statutory adjudication for payment disputes, with tight timelines - adjudication must be commenced and decided within statutory periods.

Payment claim and payment response mechanism: unpaid party may refer to adjudication; an adjudicator's determination is binding pending final resolution by arbitration/litigation.

Contract administration duties: issue instructions, certify payments and extensions of time, value variations, monitor progress, and issue completion/non-completion certificates per the contract.

Record keeping is critical: site diaries, minutes, instructions in writing, variation orders, and notices within contractual time limits preserve the architect's position.

Structural systems: reinforced concrete frames, steel frames, and load-bearing walls; selection depends on span, height, loading, programme, and cost.

Concrete: grade denotes characteristic cube strength (e.g., C30); cover to reinforcement protects against corrosion and fire; curing affects strength and durability.

Foundations: shallow (pad, strip, raft) versus deep (piles, caissons); choice depends on soil bearing capacity, settlement limits, and groundwater.

Fire safety: Buildings Ordinance and Codes of Practice on Fire Safety in Buildings govern means of escape, fire-resisting construction, compartmentation, and access for firefighting.

Means of escape: travel distance, exit width, and protected routes; staircases and exit doors must satisfy prescribed requirements.

Barrier-free access: Design Manual - Barrier Free Access 2008 sets requirements for ramps, lifts, door widths, and accessible toilets.

Building envelope: control of water penetration via damp-proof courses, flashings, cavity drainage, and correct lap detailing; thermal and condensation control by insulation and vapour barriers.

Site practice: method statements, temporary works design, scaffolding safety, hoarding, and site supervision; the Authorized Person/Registered Structural Engineer/Registered Geotechnical Engineer supervise under the Buildings Ordinance.

Buildings Ordinance: submission of plans for approval, supervision by AP/RSE/RGE, occupation permits, and the Building Authority's power to order rectification of unauthorized building works.

Case study approach: identify the parties, contractual relationships, obligations, timeline of events, and the specific issue in dispute before proposing a resolution.

Common examiners' themes: failure to issue instructions in writing, inadequate site supervision, late certification, unclear scope, and poor communication with clients and contractors.

Conflict of interest: declare any personal or financial interest; where a conflict exists, decline the appointment or obtain informed written consent.

Certification duty: the architect must certify honestly and independently, not favouring the client who pays the fee; bias or pressure to under/over-certify is misconduct.

Confidentiality: client information must not be disclosed without consent except where required by law or to prevent serious harm.

Negligence and liability: duty of care to the client; liability may extend to third parties in limited circumstances; keep records to defend claims.

Professional judgement: when facing an ethical dilemma, document the facts, consider the Code of Conduct and Ordinance, seek advice from the Board or professional body, and act transparently.

Communication: confirm verbal instructions in writing promptly; keep minutes of meetings and distribute them; ensure decisions and approvals are recorded.

Accepting gifts or hospitality: modest hospitality may be acceptable, but gifts that could influence decisions must be declined or disclosed.