The Professional Governance Act and the BCIA Bylaws protect the public against unauthorized, unregistered individuals who use a professional agrologist title or seal and provide advice that only a qualified Registrant of BCIA can provide. BCIA will take appropriate disciplinary action if a complaint is determined to have merit via the Complaints Process.
Is my complaint confidential?
Your complaint will be held in confidence and on a need-to-know basis by BCIA unless required by law.
Will my complaint cost me money?
The BC Institute of Agrologists does not charge a fee to file or investigate a complaint. Note that the complainant is responsible for the costs for any hearing, e.g., their lawyer or witnesses.
Are there any complaints that BCIA will NOT investigate?
BCIA will NOT investigate complaints similar to those below (but is not limited to):
- A dispute over fees or contractual terms and conditions
- Concerns outside the practice of agrology
- Accusations not supported by facts
How long will it take for my complaint to be resolved?
BCIA aims to resolve complaints quickly; however, since a broad range of potential actions results from a complaint, it is not always possible to guarantee the length of the complaint resolution period.
Will BCIA help me resolve a dispute with another party?
As professionals, BCIA Registrants often know each other. BCIA's Code of Ethics suggests that it may be beneficial to discuss concerns directly with the other party as a first step, A constructive conversation is often able to resolve the issue without third party involvement. BCIA may refer you to another agency; however, our resources do not include direct mediation or dispute resolution.
What is required to become registered with BCIA?
Review the Registration Process.
Where can I find information on the Code of Ethics?
Read the Professional Code of Ethics
How can I find out if someone is registered or any conditions placed on a registrant's practice?
Search the Directory of BCIA Registrants
I believe someone is practicing agrology and using the designation or seal (stamp) without being registered with BCIA
If someone says they are a Professional Agrologist and are not on BCIA's Directory of Registrants ("unauthorized practice"), follow the Complaints Process and Submit a Complaint at the earliest opportunity.