Since 1985, the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland has offered accreditation in building conservation to its members to meet the requirements of funding bodies (as well as employers and clients). Conservation Accreditation demonstrates that architects are suitably qualified to act as the lead professional in grant aided conservation work.

Accreditation ensures that all RIAS members have a route by which they can demonstrate their extensive knowledge and experience in conservation work. It also demonstrates their personal competence to administer grant aided conservation schemes and provides a forum for conservation specific continuing professional development (CPD).

Individual Members are accredited. Applying for Conservation Accreditation requires information about the member’s career, qualifications and further areas of study or professional development. This is supported by case studies and information demonstrating the application of judgment and the member’s particular role. Assessors also require evidence of current conservation CPD.

Applications are assessed by two members of the RIAS Conservation Panel which brings together senior RIAS members with extensive conservation architecture expertise.
If necessary, applications may be deferred with advice given on the required steps to clarify the information or re-submit. Assessors may defer if, for example, they are seeking better information, more appropriate cases or clarification of the applicant’s role.

If an application is deferred twice, it will be refused. The applicant will then be advised on the Panel’s reasoning. At this stage, the applicant may refer his concerns to the President for independent adjudication.

Accreditation is to one of two levels ('Advanced' and 'Accredited'). 'Accredited' members may apply for an upgrade at any time, on application supported by further submission at the proposed higher level.

Click here for further information on the Understanding Conservation online resource, designed to offer assistance and guidance to professional practitioners, including Architects, preparing for Accreditation.

Levels of Accreditation

Advanced       Senior      -    Recognised Conservation Specialists
Accredited     Standard  -   Competent in Working in the Historic  Built Environment

NB: Any additional information is strictly limited - please refer to the guidance notes for the maximum number of pages allowed.  Applications must be submitted unbound to allow for copying.

Application form and guidance notes (PDF with form fields)
 
For further information contact  Kirsty Ward at the RIAS on 0131 229 7545 or email kward@rias.org.uk