Implementation of Code of Ethics among Quantity Surveying Firms in Nigeria

Abstract

With the challenging economy in a developing country like Nigeria, it is not uncommon to see construction professionals acting in manners that goes against the ethics of their profession during the course of carrying out their professional duties just to make ends meet. This study therefore assessed the implementation of code of ethics among quantity surveying firms in Nigeria. Using a survey design, 68 Quantity surveying firms were identified and sampled using a well-structured questionnaire. Data gathered were analyzed using percentage, frequency and mean item score. The study reveals that there is high level of awareness of the code of ethics among quantity surveyors in the study area but not all have fully implemented it in their day to day activities. This non-implementation is as a result of inadequate remuneration for services rendered, present economic condition within the country and pressure from project team members. The study also reveals that the most occurring unethical practice among Quantity surveyors is insincerity to clients and other professionals, and this and all other unethical practices such as bribery, colluding with contractors during the course of construction and revealing of official details such as tender figures can be curbed with the strict enforcement of the code of ethics. The study therefore recommend that the professional bodies should be more proactive in enforcing the professions code of ethics among its members and ensure strict penalty for defaulters. Also Quantity surveying profession’s code of ethics should be taught extensively in higher institutions. Seminars and workshops to sensitize and remind Quantity surveyors of the benefits of implementing the code and its effect on the image of the profession should also be organized by its professional bodies.

Keywords: Code of ethics, Nigeria, Quantity surveying, Performance, Unethical