Ethical Concerns & Disputes
One of the ways REALTORS® set themselves apart is by committing to uphold a strict Code of Ethics. When a real estate agent chooses to become a REALTOR®, they agree to higher standards of professionalism, honesty, and fairness.
The West Virginia Association of REALTORS® is responsible for helping to ensure those standards are met and providing tools to both our members and the public when they are not.
If you’re not sure where to start, you can contact us at 304-342-7600.
Need To Report a Concern?
There are several ways to address concerns related to the Code of Ethics, including submitting a Problem Prevention Report, requesting Ombudsman Services or filing a formal Ethics Complaint.
Problem Prevention
Not ready to start a formal process? Not sure if your situation qualifies? Just need to say something?
A Problem Prevention Report is a simple way to raise a concern about a possible Code of Ethics violation without filing a formal complaint. Use this option if you’d like our association to proactively contact a REALTOR® member to help correct an issue.
These reports are handled as an educational opportunity for the REALTOR® involved. You may choose to remain anonymous.
Ombudsman Services
The Ombudsman Program offers an informal way to address concerns and clear up miscommunications before they become formal complaints. Our trained Ombuds listen to both parties, help clarify misunderstandings, and work toward a resolution.
This service is free, confidential, and available to both the public and REALTOR® members. It’s a great option when you’re seeking a quicker, more conversational way to resolve an issue — without jumping straight into the formal complaint process.
File an Ethics Complaint
If you believe a REALTOR® has violated the Code of Ethics, you may file a formal complaint. This is a structured process that involves review by a hearing panel and, if necessary, disciplinary action. Before filing, please be sure to review the Code of Ethics and identify the specific article(s) you believe were violated.
Resources:
Arbitration Requests
For commission or money-related disputes.
REALTORS® are sometimes required to submit to arbitration to resolve disputes involving entitlement to compensation. Arbitration is similar to a private court case: a neutral, trained panel from our Professional Standards Committee hears both sides of a financial dispute and makes a binding decision. Arbitration can take place:
- Between REALTORS®: Brokers from different firms may be required to arbitrate when there’s a dispute about who earned a commission.
- Between a REALTOR® and a Client: Clients may request arbitration with the broker of the firm they hired if there’s a financial or contract-related dispute.
- Not for Conduct/Ethics Issues: Concerns about an agent’s behavior should be addressed in one of the manners listed in the previous section.
Mediation is always offered before arbitration.
Mediation is an informal process where a neutral mediator helps the parties talk through their disagreement and work toward a solution they both accept. Unlike arbitration, the mediator doesn’t decide who’s right or wrong — the parties stay in control of the outcome. Mediation is:
- Voluntary: Both sides must agree to mediate.
- Faster: Often resolves disputes in a single session.
- Encouraged First: Mediation is always offered before arbitration.
If you have questions about these processes, please contact our office at 304-342-7600.
Not Sure Where to Start?
We’re here to help! You can call us at 304-342-7600 or email ray@wvrealtors.com.