Читать книгу Professional Practice for Interior Designers - Christine M. Piotrowski - Страница 169

What might happen if a client wishes to complain about the conduct of a designer? It is likely the client will contact the association (or organization) concerning the complaint. One action that will then happen is to determine if the designer is a member of the association since the association cannot take action against a nonaffiliated designer. The client will be informed that they must send a letter detailing the complaint. What needs to be included and to what office it should be filed will vary by the association or organization. It should be noted that just because a client complains to an association, it does not automatically mean the designer will be disciplined.

Each association (for simplicity) has its own procedures for how a complaint is to be filed and what happens with that complaint. Generally, a designated staff member or committee will review it. The designer, of course, is notified of the complaint. After receiving input from the designer, the complaint along with any materials subsequently provided by the client and designer are sent to an appropriate committee or designated individual appointed by the association for further review.

After this review, a determination will be made whether any type of violation has occurred. If the reviewing committee or individual determines that no violation has occurred, the parties are so notified and the matter is closed. If the committee feels a violation has occurred, the parties are notified and a hearing is scheduled.

At the hearing—which is likely conducted by a committee of members—the designer and the client will provide information to a review committee. After presentations from both sides to the complaint, the review committee might determine that no further action related to the designer is warranted and thus dismisses the case. Should the complaint be related to ethical behavior and if it is determined that an ethics violation has occurred, numerous types of discipline (depending on the association) may be warranted.

The various associations and other organizations have procedures for how a complaint is to be filed and what happens with that complaint. As each organization's procedures are different, the reader is encouraged to research an association or organization's Web site for information regarding specific procedures.

It is important to point out that disciplinary hearings are not courts of law. Regardless of the outcome of a complaint, the client may decide that the designer's actions are legally actionable and may file a civil claim. Chapter 8 discusses responsibilities related to the law.