AIC Construction Ethics & Professional Practice 2

Question 1

Under the AIC's ethical standards, how should a constructor handle confidential project information obtained from a previous client?

Accepted Answer

Keep it strictly confidential and never use it to the detriment of the former client

Answer

Constructors are ethically obligated to maintain confidentiality of client information indefinitely, not just during the project.

Question 2

A constructor realizes mid-project that the cost will significantly exceed the original estimate. The ethical course of action is to:

Accepted Answer

Notify the client immediately with updated cost projections and cause analysis

Answer

Transparency and timely disclosure of cost overruns is an ethical obligation; clients must be informed promptly so they can make informed decisions.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes 'fee splitting' and why it is considered unethical in construction?

Accepted Answer

Paying undisclosed referral fees to secure work, which creates hidden conflicts of interest

Answer

Undisclosed fee splitting creates hidden conflicts of interest and violates the principle of transparency owed to clients.

Question 4

AIC members are expected to pursue continuing education primarily because:

Accepted Answer

Ongoing learning maintains the competence necessary to serve clients and the public responsibly

Answer

The AIC expects members to pursue continuing education to maintain and expand the competence required to practice responsibly and ethically.

Question 5

In construction professional practice, 'bid shopping' after award is generally considered unethical because it:

Accepted Answer

Undermines subcontractor trust and the integrity of the competitive bidding process

Answer

Bid shopping after award breaks the implicit trust of the competitive process and discourages subcontractors from submitting their best prices.

AIC - American Institute of Constructors Certification Practice Test