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1- Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice NAR
(Adobe Acrobat File)
The single, most outstanding characteristic that sets REALTORS® apart from other real estate practitioners is the willingness to accept and abide by the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS®. The Code of Ethics, which was first adopted on July 29, 1913, is a living document, responsive to content changes in the law and industry. The Code has been revised several times through the years to reflect current developments in professional real estate practice. The term REALTOR® has come to represent competency, fairness and high integrity. These qualities stem from voluntary adherence to an ideal of moral conduct in real estate business practices.
A REALTOR® takes an oath following acceptance into the local, state, and national boards. The oath was established by the National Association of REALTORS® to better enforce the Code of Ethics and to direct special attention to REALTORS® who pledge to protect the individual right of real estate ownership; to be honorable and honest in all dealings; to better represent clients by building knowledge and competence; to act fairly towards all in the spirit of the Golden Rule; and to serve the community.
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2 - Ethics Complaints Arbitration Request
Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests and Related Information
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.
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5 - PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS & ETHICS PROCESS MATERIALS
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
COMPLAINT MATERIALS for ETHICS
A complaint must be filed within 180 calendar days after the closing of the transaction, if any, or after the facts constituting the matter could have been known in the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever is later. Please return the completed filing form with a written explanation of the complaint (marked “Exhibit A”) that identifies section(s) within the Code of Ethics and/or MLS Rules you believe have been violated, as well as any/all supporting documentation (copies of contracts, letters, etc.). Try to include, as evidence, everything that may be pertinent to the complaint in supporting your position. Return the complaint packet to this office, including all supporting documentation, along with 2 additional copies of the entire complaint packet. Disciplinary Complaints that have been filed are referred to members of the Grievance Committee, who review the complaint and determine whether the matter is to be referred for a Professional Standards Hearing. If they determine a Professional Standards Hearing will be held, you will need to attend and present your case, and should bring any witnesses you feel may be pertinent to your case. (During a Hearing, witnesses are present for the “swearing in” portion, then are only present during their own personal testimony.) You will be notified of the Grievance Committee determination.
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