CIfA is pleased to publish the newly updated Standard and universal guidance for the investigation and recording of buildings or structures of architectural and historic interest.
These documents replace the previous Standard and guidance for the archaeological investigation and recording of standing buildings or structures and are now available on the CIfA website.
We encourage all accredited professionals and Registered Organisations to update their files and begin using the new documents.
We recognise that some ongoing projects may need to continue referring to the previous version, particularly where it is cited within planning documentation. We do not anticipate significant implementation issues during this transition period. However, if you have any concerns, please get in touch.
Development of the documents
The review and update were undertaken by a working group comprising representatives and specialists from the CIfA Buildings Archaeology Group committee, CIfA's Professional Standards Advisory Panel and the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC). The project was coordinated by Jen Parker Wooding, CIfA's Head of Professional Standards.
We would like to thank those volunteers who contributed their time, expertise and feedback throughout the review process, including those who responded to the public consultation.
What has changed?
As with the fieldwork Standards and universal guidance introduced in December 2023, these documents follow CIfA's revised standards framework. The principal changes include the separation of Standards and guidance into distinct documents and the introduction of a streamlined universal guidance format.
Further information about the new structure and key changes is available on our website.
While different formats currently exist across the Standards suite, all documents published on the CIfA website remain current. Their use continues to be mandatory for CIfA-accredited professionals and Registered Organisations, and the format change does not affect their application in professional conduct matters.
Training and CPD
The implementation of the new Standard and guidance will be supported with a programme of training and CPD opportunities in partnership with the CIfA Buildings Archaeology Group during 2027.
Please contact Jen Parker Wooding (jen.parkerwooding@archaeologists.net) if you have any questions.