ARC conducts field compliance monitoring exercise to sanitise Ghana’s built environment

The Architects Registration Council (ARC) has successfully concluded a field compliance monitoring exercise across selected project sites in the country as part of its enforcement mandate under the Architects Act, 1969 (Act 357) that requires high standards in architectural practice.

Delivering remarks after the exercise, the Acting Registrar of the Council, Arc. Josephine Essie M. Kpesese, explained that the initiative was undertaken to verify whether architectural works on site are being executed in accordance with approved architectural drawings, professional standards, and applicable building regulations.

She noted that a key focus of the inspection was to confirm that architectural designs for projects were prepared by duly qualified architects registered with the Council and that such professionals are in good standing.

 

The Compliance Team also assessed whether:

• Approved architectural drawings and permits were available on site;
• Architectural supervision was being undertaken by registered professionals;
• Construction works conformed to approved designs; and
• Architectural works complied with the Ghana Building Code GS 1207:2018 and other applicable standards.

According to Arc. Kpesese, the exercise represents a two-way regulatory process aimed not only at enforcement but also at sensitizing, educating, and sanitizing the built environment sector in the interest of public safety.

“Our inspections and engagements over time have revealed that while some projects demonstrate satisfactory levels of compliance and professional supervision, there remain concerning cases of unauthorized practice, inadequate supervision, non-compliance with approved drawings, and disregard for regulatory requirements.”

She emphasized that such practices compromise public safety, weaken confidence in the profession, and expose the public to avoidable risks.

Enforcement and Corrective Measures

She warned that where non-compliance is identified, appropriate enforcement actions will be taken. These include:

• Issuance of notices of non-compliance;
• Directives for corrective action and regularization; and
• Collaboration with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to enforce stop-work directives in cases involving serious violations or unsafe practices.

Project owners and consultants will be given the opportunity to rectify deficiencies within specified timelines by engaging registered architects in good standing and ensuring adherence to approved standards and regulations.

She however cautioned that failure to comply with directives or continued unauthorized practice will attract sanctions in accordance with the Architects Act and other applicable laws.

Commitment to Professional Standards

Arc. Kpesese reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the architectural profession and promoting safe, accountable, and compliant development practices across Ghana.

She cautioned developers, consultants, contractors, and all persons engaged in construction activities to desist from unauthorized architectural practice and non-compliance with approved designs.

“The era of unchecked professional violations and unregulated construction practices must come to an end.”

She stressed that the Council will intensify monitoring, enforcement, and collaboration with relevant authorities.

She commended the ARC Compliance Team for their professionalism and dedication, noting that findings from the exercise will guide future enforcement actions.

Committee Chairman’s Remarks

Also addressing the media, Arc. Samuel M. Quartey, Chairman of the ARC Compliance Monitoring Committee, observed that many construction projects across the city and other parts of the country are not supported by registered architects.

“This is a serious concern, and the public must be protected.”

He indicated that the Committee will continue the exercise in the coming weeks, extending visits to various sites nationwide.

Arc. Quartey urged developers and project owners to ensure they engage registered architects and secure the necessary permits before commencing construction.

“There are ongoing collaborations with assemblies, legal teams, and the police. Where necessary, we will not hesitate to shut down non-compliant sites.”

He further encouraged all stakeholders to support efforts to sanitize the architectural practice by ensuring proper registration and licensing of practitioners.

“This responsibility is not for the Compliance Committee alone. Developers, clients, and professionals must all play their part in ensuring adherence to standards and regulations.”