Resolving a Complaint

How do I file a complaint against a real estate licensee?

If you have a complaint against a real estate licensee you are working with, try talking to the principal broker in the firm to see if the issue can be resolved. Open, constructive discussion often resolves questions or differences, eliminating the need for further action. If those efforts are unsuccessful, you can file a formal complaint regarding a licensee.

I think my broker or agent violated the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act or the Rules and Regulations of the State Real Estate Commission. What can I do?

You can file a complaint with the State Real Estate Commission. The Commission issues and maintains licenses and writes the rules and regulations that all Pennsylvania licensees subscribe to. The Commission investigates the complaint and if violations of the license law are found, sanctions can be imposed ranging from fines to license revocation. View the complaint form.

What if my broker or agent is a REALTOR®?

As a REALTOR®, he or she subscribes to a strict Code of Ethics. Many ethics complaints result from misunderstanding or a failure in communication. Before filing an ethics complaint, make reasonable efforts to communicate with your REALTOR® or a principal broker in the firm. If these efforts are not fruitful, the local board or association of REALTORS® can give you the procedures and forms necessary to file an ethics complaint.

What happens after I file the complaint with the local board or association?

When a consumer complaint is received, the Grievance Committee, composed of REALTORS® unconnected with the complaint, reviews the allegations. If the Committee determines that the complaint shows that an Article (or Articles) of the Code of Ethics might possibly have been violated, the complaint is then forwarded to a Hearing Panel. Understanding the Ethics Complaint and Hearing Panel process.

What type of sanctions are there if the REALTOR® has violated the Code of Ethics?

Sanctions for ethical violations tend to be educational in nature (requiring the REALTOR® to obtain additional education to prevent future violations), but can also include fines and suspension from the association.  A local association can NOT impose sanctions that would include things like cancelling a real estate purchase contract or forcing a REALTOR® to pay for alleged damages to a property.