Challenges Facing Members of Ghana Institution of Surveyors in Complying with Code of Ethics

Abstract

There are several professional bodies within the construction industry with their professional code of ethics, yet unethical practices is one of the most challenging issues in the construction  industry.  Professional members of professional bodies in their efforts to adhere to their code of ethics encounter numerous challenges ranging from internal factors to external factors. The  aim  of  this research is to  identify  the  challenges  faced  by  the  members  of  the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS) in complying with their professional code of ethics. The objectives of this study were to find out the importance of the code of ethics and to evaluate the challenges associated with the compliance. An extensive literature review was conducted to identify the importance and challenges facing professional ethics compliance. Field survey of Seventy-four (74) members of the GhIS was selected using purposive sampling techniques with a response rate of 95%. Data obtained were analysed with descriptive statistics techniques. The  results  show  that  the  importance  of  Professional  code  of  ethics  includes  its  ability  to increases   public   trust   in   co-operations,  define  professional   responsibilities,  safeguard professionals, create a common operational framework and increase awareness of key ethical issues. Moreover, the topmost rated challenges faced by members include political pressure, corruption, social pressure, and non-application of the necessary penaltiesto defaulters. 

Keywords: Code of ethics, Challenges, GhIS, Professional bodies, Unethical