For members
Code of Conduct & Ethics
The Federation of Damp is committed to maintaining the highest standards in damp surveying, damp proofing and waterproofing. This Code sets out the professional guidelines that every member agrees to uphold, ensuring integrity, professionalism and trust.
Last updated: February 2025
All members must uphold these standards in their business operations, customer interactions and professional engagements. Adherence to this Code is a condition of membership of the Federation of Damp.
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 training.
- Continuing professional development (CPD) should be actively pursued so 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 must not engage in misleading advertising or unfair competition.
- Quotations, reports and findings must be based on factual evidence and industry-accepted best practice.
3
Customer commitment
- Members must always act in the best interest of their clients, providing clear, unbiased and professional advice.
- Customers must be given clear explanations of findings, recommendations and associated costs.
- Work must be completed within agreed timeframes, and any delays 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 kept safe and organised, reducing risks wherever possible.
- The correct personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used, and industry safety guidelines followed.
- Regular risk assessments should be carried out to mitigate potential hazards.
6
Environmental responsibility
- Members should 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 this Code may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the Federation of Damp.
8
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 defamatory or unethical business practices.
9
Membership compliance
- Adherence to this Code of Conduct is a requirement for membership of the Federation of Damp.
- Failure to comply may result in warnings, suspension or expulsion from the Federation.
- Members should report any breaches of this Code by other members, so the integrity of the industry is upheld.
Acknowledgement
By upholding this Code of Conduct and Ethics, members contribute to a professional, trustworthy and high-quality industry, so customers receive reliable, ethical service. All members review and acknowledge this Code on joining and commit to upholding it throughout their membership.
Standards you can hold a member to
Every listed member agrees to this Code. Find a vetted, accountable specialist near you.
