Ethics and Arbitration

Ethics Complaint Process

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REALTORS® are different from non-member licensees in that they voluntarily subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics. If you believe that a REALTOR® has violated one or more Articles of the Code of Ethics, you can file an ethics complaint alleging a violation(s) through the local association of REALTORS® where the REALTOR® holds membership, or participates in a REALTOR® association-owned/operated MLS. You may search for a member’s local affiliation here.

In addition, REALTORS® agree as a condition of membership to arbitrate contractual disputes and specific non-contractual disputes as provided for in Article 17 of the NAR Code of Ethics.

Below are several resources to help you understand what filing and processing an ethics complaint and arbitration request entails, and the general process you can expect when filing an ethics complaint or arbitration request with a local association of REALTORS®. Check with the local association of REALTORS® to ensure you have the proper forms required by that association.

Ethics

Arbitration

Statements of Professional Standards Policy

View the complete listing of Professional Standards Policy Statements.

Resources for Professional Standards Administrators

  • Sample Chronology of an Ethics Complaint
    A guide to the ethics complaint process.
  • Hearing Officers: Arbitration
    Four options that may be adopted locally to supplement the arbitration hearing procedures established in the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual.
  • Hearing Officers: Ethics
    Four options that may be adopted locally to supplement the ethics hearing procedures established in the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual.
  • Procuring Cause Arbitration Worksheet
    This worksheet is for use at local association hearing panels when identifying relevant issues and facts in determining questions of entitlement to disputed funds.
  • The Five E’s of Due Process
    The right of a private organization to discipline members and to conduct dispute resolution is conditioned by law on ensuring due process to all parties as recognized by the five elements explained in this article.

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