Any person, member or non-member, may file an ethics complaint against a member and/or broker alleging a violation of the Code of Ethics or MLS Rules & Regulations. An ethics complaint should be filed when you want to charge a member with a Code of Ethics, Bylaws or MLS Rules violation. A Complaint must be filed within 180 days from close of escrow or date of discovery with the Respondent’s primary Association. You must submit a typed-written summary detailing the events that took place with time frames and any evidence you wish to submit. Your summary must support the actual Code of Ethics, Bylaws or M.L.S. Rules you are charging against the agent and/or broker. The Association has no authority to revoke a BRE License. To file a licensing complaint, contact the California Department of Real Estate at www.dre.ca.gov or call (213) 620-2072 or click here to file a complaint with the Department of Real Estate.

If you want to file a complaint, first read “Before you File an Ethics Complaint”  https://www.nar.realtor/about-nar/governing-documents/code-of-ethics/brochure-before-you-file-an-ethics-complaint for clarification regarding what we can and cannot do.

If you would like to file a Complaint, please use the Steps to Filing a Complaint to assist you in completing the process. The process can take approximately 60-90 days in order to ensure due process to both sides.

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

• Code of Ethics (NAR)

• Before You File an Ethics Complaint (NAR)
This brochure explains alternatives to consider before filing an ethics complaint, as well as what to expect after filing a complaint.

• Consumer and REALTOR® Ombudsman Hotline
Occasionally, consumers may find themselves in a dispute with a REALTOR®. The C.A.R. Ombudsmen are volunteers that serve as a neutral and independent voice to answer consumer or REALTOR® questions, improve communication between parties, and suggest possible ways to resolve issues.

• C.A.R. Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual (Summary) (C.A.R.)
Procedures for processing complaints alleging violations of an Association’s bylaws.

• Sanctioning Guidelines (NAR)
While NAR does not recommend specific discipline for certain offenses, it does outline key points to be considered with respect to discipline.

Arbitration

• Duty to Arbitrate (NAR)
From Part Ten, Section 44 of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.

• Arbitratable Issues (NAR)
From Appendix I to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.

• Factors Considered in Arbitration (C.A.R.)
Procuring Cause Guidelines.

• No Findings of Fact in Arbitration Awards (NAR)
From Appendix IV to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.

• Mediation as a Service of Member Boards (NAR)
From Appendix VI to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual. For more information go to the Mediation page.

Statements of Professional Standards Policy (NAR)

View the complete listing of Professional Standards Policy Statements.