HKIA/ARB PA Paper 1 study plan

Summarise the registration pathways and eligibility criteria under the Architects Registration Ordinance (Cap. 408) in a one-page flowchart.

List the powers and duties of the Architects Registration Board, including disciplinary proceedings and removal from the register.

Explain the legal restrictions on the use of the title 'Architect' and 'Registered Architect', and the penalties for unauthorised use.

Identify the key differences between the HKIA Code of Professional Conduct and the statutory requirements, giving two examples of conduct that could lead to disciplinary action.

Draft a short case note on a hypothetical scenario where an unregistered person offers architectural services, analysing the legal and ethical issues.

Compare the standard HKIA Forms of Contract (e.g., with quantities, without quantities) and list the key obligations of the architect, employer, and contractor.

Outline the tendering process from pre-qualification to contract award, including the preparation of tender documents and evaluation criteria.

Explain the concept of security of payment and the adjudication procedure under the Construction Industry Security of Payment Ordinance (Cap. 652), including timelines and enforcement.

Analyse the architect's role in contract administration: issuing instructions, certificates, and handling variations and claims.

Draft a checklist for assessing a contractor's payment claim and responding within the statutory timeframe.

Explain the principles of buildability and constructability in high-rise residential and commercial projects, referencing the Building (Construction) Regulations and the PNAP APP-53.

Describe the design and detailing requirements for reinforced concrete structures, including bar spacing, cover, and lap lengths, according to the Code of Practice for Structural Use of Concrete.

Compare the properties and applications of common construction materials: concrete, steel, timber, glass, and aluminium, with reference to Hong Kong's climate and regulations.

Illustrate the typical detailing for waterproofing in basements and roofs, including the use of membranes and drainage layers.

Outline the site supervision requirements for concrete placement and testing, including slump tests and cube tests.

Analyse the causes of common building defects (e.g., spalling, leakage, cracking) and propose preventive measures in design and construction.

Explain the statutory submission and approval process under the Buildings Ordinance, including the roles of the Building Authority and the requirements for supervision plans.

Review a past case study from the HKIA/ARB professional examinations (available in examiners' reports) and identify the key professional judgement issues.

Apply a structured ethical decision-making framework to a scenario involving a conflict between client instructions and public safety.

Evaluate the architect's responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance and the Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance.

Summarise the recurring themes in HKIA/ARB examiners' reports, such as inadequate knowledge of the Buildings Ordinance, poor contract administration, and ethical lapses.

Critique a sample exam answer from a past paper (if available) against the marking criteria, identifying strengths and weaknesses.

Discuss the architect's duty to report unsafe construction practices and the potential consequences of failing to do so.

Explain the disciplinary powers of the Architects Registration Board and the types of misconduct that can lead to removal from the register.

Prepare a set of flashcards covering key ethical principles and professional conduct rules.

Explain the principles of risk allocation in construction contracts and how they are reflected in HKIA forms.

Describe the process for handling extensions of time and liquidated damages, including the architect's assessment and certification role.

Outline the requirements for temporary works design and checking, referencing the Code of Practice for Temporary Works.

Compare the procurement methods: traditional, design-build, and management contracting, and their suitability for different project types.

Prepare a detailed checklist for the architect's site inspection of structural works before concreting.

Analyse a complex case study involving multiple parties (client, contractor, architect) and conflicting interests, and propose a resolution that upholds professional ethics.

Review the HKIA Code of Professional Conduct in detail, focusing on conflicts of interest, confidentiality, and advertising.

Discuss the architect's role in dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, and the relevant clauses in HKIA contracts.

Explain the requirements for continuing professional development (CPD) under the HKIA and the Architects Registration Ordinance.

Draft a response to a hypothetical complaint made to the Architects Registration Board, demonstrating awareness of the disciplinary process.

Complete a full mock examination under timed conditions, covering all four domains.

Review incorrect answers and create a personalised list of weak areas for further study.

Summarise key legislation (Cap. 408, Cap. 652, Buildings Ordinance) in a concise revision sheet.

Practice articulating professional judgement in written answers, focusing on clarity and structure.

Finalise a quick-reference guide of essential formulas, timelines, and procedural steps.