Department Overview
The Professional Standards Department processes ethical complaints against members of our Association and arbitrations between broker members of the Southland Regional Association of REALTORS®. We also administrate mediation for the public, using the SRAR Mediation Services panel of mediators.
2022 Professional Standards Rules
CAR Implementation Guidelines – Disciplinary
CAR Implementation Guidelines – Arbitration
We accept anonymous complaints for specific Code of Ethics violations.
Ombudsman Program
If you are in a dispute with a member of the SRAR and have not yet or do not yet want to file an official complaint, your issue may be resolved through the use of our Ombudsman Program. This program is designed to have an experienced member contact both parties and attempt to resolve the matter in an informal way. This is a free service.
Notice of Ombudsman Services
Application to Participate in Ombudsman Service
Rules Regarding Ombudsman Program
Ethical/Disciplinary Complaints
The Statute of Limitations is 180 days from the date of the alleged violation. Anyone can file an ethical complaint against one of our members.
- Rule 11 of the Professional Standards Rules regarding Ethics Advocate
- Southland Regional Association of REALTORS Rules Addendum
- Procedures for Disciplinary Hearings
- 2023 National Association of REALTORS Code of Ethics (English)
- Code of Ethics D-Mystified
- Disciplinary/Ethics Complaint Form (Fillable)
- Professional Standards Volunteer Roles
- MLS Compliance
- Case Interpretations
- N.A.R. Code of Ethics Case Interpretations
- N.A.R. Commercial Code of Ethics Case Studies
- California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual
- Download the Code of Ethics in different languages!
Arbitration Complaints
The Statute of Limitations is 180 days from the close of escrow. There is a $500 filing fee to be paid by the complainant.
Once both the complaint and response have been received, the case is assigned to a volunteer mediator. We strongly recommend that both sides attempt to settle their dispute through mediation. If not, the case goes forward to an arbitration hearing. The decision of the arbitrators is final and binding. There is no appeal of an arbitration award.
Videos explaining Filling, benefits of Mediation, and what to expect at an Arbitration Hearing:
