NAR Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual
NAR Complaints and Arbitration Requests
NAR Code of Ethics – Ethics Complaint Form
Request and Agreement to Arbitrate Form (for Arbitration Between REALTOR® Members)
Agreement to Mediate Form (for Mediation Between REALTOR® Members)
Illinois REALTORS® Consumer/REALTOR® Dispute Resolution
Real estate transactions can be complex. For members of the public, it helps to have someone knowledgeable about real estate practices to answer basic questions or work to resolve minor disputes.
Sometimes a member is unable to resolve a dispute with another member. Illinois REALTORS® has a team of Ombudsmen who work with consumers and REALTORS® to resolve disputes.
How it works: Any member of the public or an association member who has a question about or dispute with a REALTOR® can get assistance. The case will be assigned to a specially trained Ombudsman who will work with a complainant to resolve the issue.
Since its founding in 2013, the program has handled nearly three-fifths of complaints to the satisfaction of all parties involved.
The program does not offer legal advice, but Illinois REALTORS® representatives can provide guidance on the next steps to take, resources for information. They can act as an intermediary in some disputes. The program has been able to clean up numerous misunderstandings and/or communication issues since its inception.
Illinois REALTORS® Ethics Citation Program
Illinois REALTORS® follow the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, which outlines standards of professional practice.
If a dispute arises with a REALTOR® regarding several provisions of the Code, complaints may be filed for review by a panel of Illinois REALTORS® members that specializes in ethical standards. The complaints, which can be filed anonymously, can come from REALTORS® or REALTORS®’ clients.
How the service works:
1. If a filing is found to meet the program’s standards, a Citation Panel will review the case. If the Citation Panel believes a violation has occurred, a citation will be issued to the Respondent, along with a set fine.
2. The Respondent has the opportunity to pay the fine within 30 days or request a hearing before an Ethics Hearing Panel. Fines range from $250 to $1,000, depending on the nature and severity of the violation. The panel can also mandate training or other remedies.
3. If the Respondent requests a hearing, the complaint will be sent to the Grievance Committee for review.
NAR Code of Ethics Course for New Members*
NAR Code of Ethics Course for Existing Members*
*Note: NAR Code of Ethics courses do not qualify for Continuing Education credit in Illinois