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SBID is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct amongst its members

Do you have concerns about the conduct, ethical behaviour, or professional obligations of a member?

All SBID members agree to abide by the Society’s Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct.

Generally, disputes arise from misunderstandings and are resolved without the intervention of a third party. If, however, you feel or have evidence that a SBID registered designer has acted unprofessionally or unethically, you can submit a formal complaint against them. Following review, SBID will determine whether there has been a breach of Code. Where appropriate, we may direct complainants to another organisation or authority better placed to assist.

Before proceeding, review and consider the following:

What we can consider:

As a professional membership body, SBID may consider complaints concerning alleged breaches of the SBID Code of Ethics & Conduct.

This can include:

  • Professional misconduct.
  • Dishonest, unethical, or misleading conduct.
  • Failure to meet professional obligations owed to clients.
  • Conduct that may bring the profession or SBID into disrepute.

What we cannot consider:

SBID is not a statutory regulator, court, or dispute resolution service. We therefore cannot:

  • Provide legal advice or award compensation / damages.
  • Resolve contractual disputes between parties.
  • Enforce contractual obligations.
  • Investigate individuals or businesses that are not SBID members.
  • Involve with matters that are currently being determined by a court.

In the first instance:

  • Attempt to resolve issues or concerns directly with the designer. It's important to clearly state your expectations, why you feel they have not been met and what you expect to happen to resolve your complaint.
  • Verify member status. SBID can confirm if the practice holds an active membership.
  • If the matter remains unresolved or represents serious breach of our professional conduct or ethics, a complaint may be submitted to SBID for investigation.

The outcome of a complaint may include:

  • No further action.
  • Informal guidance or recommendations.
  • A formal caution.
  • A disciplinary sanction on membership terms.
  • Suspension of membership.
  • Removal from membership.

If the complaint falls outside SBID's remit, where possible, we will recommend alternative sources of assistance.

How to submit a complaint:

Complaints must be submitted in writing via email to the SBID. The complaint should include:

  • Your full name and contact details.
  • The name of the SBID member or member practice concerned.
  • A clear description of the complaint.
  • Relevant dates and events.
  • Copies of supporting evidence, including correspondence, contracts, invoices, photographs, reports, or other relevant materials and documentation.
  • Details of any action already taken to resolve the matter.

Reviewing the complaint:

Upon receipt, SBID will conduct an initial review to determine whether:

  • The individual concerned is an SBID member.
  • The complaint appears to raise an issue of professional conduct or ethical concern which represents a potential breach to matters covered by the SBID Code of Conduct or Code of Ethics.
  • Sufficient information has been provided to allow further consideration.

Commencing formal investigation:

Where a complaint proceeds, SBID may:

  • Notify the member of the complaint.
  • Request a written response from the member.
  • Obtain additional information from either party.
  • Seek clarification of evidence.
  • Refer the matter to the SBID Ethics Committee for review.

Members are required to cooperate fully with any investigation undertaken by SBID.

Decision

Following completion of the investigation, SBID will determine whether there has been a breach of the Code of Conduct or Code of Ethics. A decision and outcome will be determined and communicated in writing to the relevant parties.

You want to escalate the complaint to higher authorities:

1. Dispute resolution - Mediation:

  • Mediation services is a cost effective solution to resolve legal disputes between designers and clients as an alternative to costly court proceedings.
  • The mediation process may also help to preserve the relationships involved.
  • It is highly recommended that mediation is agreed between both parties within the terms of the contract.

2. Final resolve - Court proceedings:

  • The Courts will penalise a party that has not attempted to settle a dispute through mediation, so every attempt to mitigate the problem before this step is taken is recommended.
  • It's advisable to work with an experienced lawyer who can help you understand your rights and work with you to navigate the formal process and legal system.

If you require legal advice or seek mediation services, you can get in touch with our partner, Unity Legal Solutions.

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