Federation of Damp – Code of Conduct & Ethics
Introduction
The Federation of Damp (FOD) is committed to maintaining the highest standards in the damp surveying and damp-proofing industry. This Code of Conduct & Ethics outlines the professional guidelines that all members must adhere to, ensuring integrity, professionalism, and trust within the industry. All members must uphold these standards in their business operations, customer interactions, and professional engagements.
1. Professional Standards
● Members must operate in a professional and ethical manner, adhering to the highest industry standards.
● All work should be carried out competently, with due diligence, and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
● Members must only undertake work within their competence and qualifications.
● Continuous professional development (CPD) should be actively pursued to ensure knowledge and skills remain up-to-date.
2. Integrity & Honesty
● Members must provide honest, clear, and accurate assessments and reports.
● Any conflicts of interest must be declared, and members must not knowingly misrepresent facts for financial or personal gain.
● Members should not engage in misleading advertising or unfair competition.
● Quotations, reports, and findings must be based on factual evidence and industry-accepted best practices.
3. Customer Commitment●
● Members must always act in the best interest of their clients, providing clear, unbiased, and professional advice.
● Customers must be provided with clear explanations of findings, recommendations, and associated costs.
● Work must be completed within agreed timeframes, and any delays must be communicated promptly.
● Members must provide warranties or guarantees as appropriate and uphold them without undue restrictions.
4. Compliance & Legal Obligations
● All members must comply with relevant UK laws, including health and safety regulations, building codes, and consumer protection laws.
● Members must ensure that any employees or subcontractors adhere to the same high standards.
● Data protection and confidentiality must be respected in line with GDPR and other applicable regulations.
5. Health & Safety
● Members must prioritise the safety of their staff, clients, and the public at all times.
● Worksites must be maintained in a safe and organised manner, reducing risks wherever possible.
● The correct protective equipment (PPE) must be used, and industry safety guidelines must be followed.
● Regular risk assessments should be carried out to mitigate potential hazards.
6. Environmental Responsibility
● Members should strive to minimise their environmental impact by using sustainable materials and methods where possible.
● Waste must be disposed of in a responsible and legal manner.
● Energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions should be prioritised where feasible.
7. Complaints & Dispute Resolution
● Members must have a clear and fair process for handling customer complaints.
● Complaints should be acknowledged and resolved promptly and professionally.
● If disputes cannot be resolved internally, members must be willing to engage in mediation or third-party arbitration.
● Persistent breaches of the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the Federation of Damp.
8. Commitment to Ethical Business Practices
● Members must conduct business with transparency, avoiding deceptive pricing or sales tactics.
● Anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies must be strictly adhered to.
● Members must respect their competitors and refrain from engaging in defamatory or unethical business practices.
9. Membership Compliance
● Adherence to this Code of Conduct is a requirement for membership in the Federation of Damp.
● Failure to comply may result in warnings, suspension, or expulsion from the Federation.
● Members must report any breaches of this Code by other members to ensure the integrity of the industry is upheld.
Conclusion
By adhering to this Code of Conduct & Ethics, members of the Federation of Damp contribute to a professional, trustworthy, and high-quality industry.
This ensures that customers receive reliable and ethical service while maintaining the credibility and reputation of the Federation and its members.
All members must review and acknowledge this Code upon joining and commit to upholding these principles throughout their membership.