file a complaint
It is important that we work to preserve the integrity of the profession and the trust and satisfaction of clients. Many of the issues that may arise between REALTORS® and clients can be addressed with open and constructive communication with that professional and/or the firm’s principal broker. When that doesn’t resolve the issue, a formal ethics complaint may be filed.
filing a complaint
Anyone may file an ethics complaint alleging a violation(s) through the local association of REALTORS® where a REALTOR® holds membership or participates in a REALTOR® association-owned/operated Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
Search for a member’s local affiliation here.
In addition, REALTORS® agree, as a condition of membership, to arbitrate contractual disputes and specific noncontractual disputes as provided for in Article 17 of the NAR Code of Ethics.
ethics complaint
The documents below are available to individuals contemplating filing a complaint against a REALTORS®. Dispute resolution procedures followed by associations when an ethics complaint is filed are explained in the following documents:
New Castle County
Kent County
Sussex County
Arbitration
REALTORS® also agree, as a condition of membership, to arbitrate contractual disputes and specific noncontractual disputes as provided for in Article 17 of the NAR Code of Ethics. Arbitration, a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), is a legal technique for the resolution of disputes outside the courts. It is a settlement technique in which a third party reviews the case and imposes a decision that is legally binding for both sides. Resources to guide you through these processes are available here.
Mediation
Mediation involves the skillful intervention of a third-party professional to help resolve disputes that arise between two or more parties; all parties must agree to the solution. It is less expensive, timelier, confidential, more flexible, and it preserves the relationship. Click here to access a field guide to mediation and conflict resolution.
Reporting Discrimination
Local associations should be contacted with complaints alleging violations of the Code of Ethics filed by a home seeker who contends discriminatory treatment in the availability, purchase or rental of housing. Local real estate associations have a responsibility to enforce the Code of Ethics through professional standards procedures and corrective action in cases where a violation of the Code of Ethics is proven to have occurred.
Complaints alleging discrimination in housing may be filed with the nearest office of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or by contacting them at online http://www.hud.gov. Additional information is available on the NAR website.
Complaints may also be filed with the Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights.
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