Dispute Resolution
What sets REALTORS® apart from other real estate practitioners is their acceptance and adherence to the Code of Ethics, which is a condition of membership in the Stamford Board of REALTORS®. The Code includes the professional responsibilities and expectations of REALTOR® members to their clients, customers, fellow REALTORS® and the public.
From time to time, disputes may arise in real estate transactions between REALTORS® or between a member of the public and a REALTOR®. Many common disputes arise from misunderstanding, miscommunication, or lack of adequate communication. If you have a problem with a real estate professional, you may want to speak with them or with a principal broker in the firm. Open, constructive discussion often resolves questions or differences, eliminating the need for further action.
When a dispute arises involving a REALTOR® member, the professional standards process is utilized as a way to resolve the matter. Boards and Associations of REALTORS® are responsible for enforcing the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics imposes duties above and in addition to those imposed by law or regulation which apply only to real estate professionals who choose to become REALTORS®.
The Grievance and Professional Standards committees are composed of experienced REALTORS® well trained in state and association standards. They are responsible for ensuring due process is afforded to all parties and that all matters are handled expeditiously and in the strictest confidence. Hearing panel decisions are reached after careful review of evidence supplied by complainants and respondents.
Ethics Complaint
An “Ethics Complaint” may be filed by a member of the public or by a REALTOR®, alleging specific violations of one or more of the seventeen Articles of the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS®. If you feel you have a grievance, you may want to consider filing an ethics complaint. An ethics complaint may be filed by a member of the public or by a REALTOR®, alleging specific violations of one or more of the seventeen Articles of the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS®.
Request for Arbitration
Another type of action is called a “Request for Arbitration.” An arbitration hearing, or the alternative service of mediation, settles disputes between REALTORS® that arise out of the business of real estate. In certain circumstances a client of a REALTOR® may also invoke Arbitration.
Begin with a phone call. If you have a problem with a real estate professional, speak with them or with a principal broker in the firm. Open, constructive discussion often resolves questions or differences, eliminating the need for further action.
For Additional Information Visit
To file an Ethics Complaint or request Arbitration,
Call 860-566-8665 or email prostandards@ctrealtors.com