Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests and Related Information
REALTORS® are real estate professionals who have chosen to join the National Association and abide by its strict Code of Ethics. What does this mean to you? It means that any REALTOR® you work with has voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Ethics based on professionalism and protection of the public. REALTORS® are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics. Through the filing of complaints, the REALTOR® is made to review his or her actions as it pertains to the specific situation. This process, we feel, helps the REALTOR® identify and respond to potential problem areas in the conduct of their business with the desired result being improved service to the public.
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. 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 to do to file an ethics complaint or arbitration request, 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.
For Consumers or REALTORS® Wishing to File an Ethics Complaint
Ethics complaints are filed when one individual (either a REALTOR® or the client of a REALTOR®) feels that another REALTOR® has violated the Code of Ethics through their conduct. Ethics complaints are intended to educate REALTORS® about unacceptable conduct and are not intended for any financial gain.
Code of Ethics
View the current NAR Code of Ethics here. Before You File an Ethics Complaint
This brochure explains alternatives to consider before filing an ethics complaint, as well as what to expect after filing a complaint.
Initiating an Ethics Hearing
Procedures for processing complaints alleging violations of an Association's bylaws
Ethics Complaint Form Sanctioning Guidelines
While NAR does not recommend specific discipline for certain offenses, it does outline key points to be considered with respect to discipline.
For REALTORS® Wishing to File an Arbitration Request
Duty to Arbitrate
From Part Ten, Section 43 of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual Arbitratable Issues
From Appendix I to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual Key Arbitration Forms
View or download forms for filing an arbitration request Factors Considered in Arbitration
From Appendix II to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual No Findings of Fact in Arbitration Awards
From Appendix IV to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual Mediation as a Service of Member Boards
From Appendix VI to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual. For more information go to the Mediation page
For REALTORS® Wishing to Take NAR's Online Code of Ethics Course
REALTORS® are required to take an education course in the REALTOR® Code of Ethics as a requirement of new membership and once every four years to maintain that membership status. The current renewal cycle began January 1, 2013 and ends December 31, 2016. REALTORS® can take the Quadrennial Code of Ethics through the REALTOR® Institute either by classroom or online.
You may access the New Member and Existing Member Code of Ethics courses here: Code of Ethics Training
If you have a concern about a member, agent, or office,
please email Professional Standards Administrator of NMAR.
If you wish to file an Ethics Complaint choose the appropriate form above, complete, sign, and mail it to:
Professional Standards Administrator
c/o NMAR
110 Cooperative Way
Kalispell, MT 59901
REALTOR® Association: (406) 752-4313
Montana Regional MLS (Kalispell Office): (406) 752-4197
Fax: (406) 752-7834